radiator overflow tank unsealed?

[matt]

I just purchased a used 2001 Outback Wagon. One of the first things I did
was flush out the radiator and the extra tank. It was very very dirty in
there. The cause (as I see it) is that the hose from the main tank to the
overflow (white plastic) tank is not sealed where it connects to the
overflow tank. Is it supposed to be sealed? I have considered sealing it
with silicone glue, which would work fine, unless there is a reason for it
not to be sealed. Any thoughts?

 

[Bill Putney]

I just purchased a used 2001 Outback Wagon. One of the first things I did
was flush out the radiator and the extra tank. It was very very dirty in
there. The cause (as I see it) is that the hose from the main tank to the
overflow (white plastic) tank is not sealed where it connects to the
overflow tank. Is it supposed to be sealed? I have considered sealing it
with silicone glue, which would work fine, unless there is a reason for it
not to be sealed. Any thoughts?

I'm not familiar with the car, but if the hose is on a barb, then it
should be tight - replace the hose. If it just drops thru a hole with
obviously intentional clearance, then that's venting - leave it alone.
It's normal for the coolant in the overflow tank to be pretty dirty
looking.

Bill Putney
(to reply by e-mail, replace the last letter of the alphabet in my
address with "x")

 

[E Smith]

I'm not familiar with the car, but if the hose is on a barb, then it
should be tight - replace the hose. If it just drops thru a hole with
obviously intentional clearance, then that's venting - leave it alone.
It's normal for the coolant in the overflow tank to be pretty dirty
looking.

Bill Putney
(to reply by e-mail, replace the last letter of the alphabet in my
address with "x")