Coolant Reservoir Replacement

[nconti13]

Hi guys,

My stock coolant reservoir has a small crack in it and I have a replacement reservoir now. I would like to tackle replacing it myself but just had a couple questions.

First, I'm assuming it's possible to do this without dumping all the coolant from the cooling system? Pretty sure I had the coolant changed when I had a prior coolant leak repaired.

Second, will I need to bleed air out of the system after I replace the res? What is the procedure to do this on our cars? (1.4T if it makes a difference).

Thanks!

 

[6speedti]

Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual: Radiator Surge Tank Replacement - Radiator - Engine Cooling - Engine - Powertrain
Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual: Cooling System Draining and Filling - Information - Engine Cooling - Engine - Powertrain

 

[BigLee]

You don't have to drain the cooling system.
Once the small "vent" hose is removed And Attachment Bolts removed, I simply elevated the resivoir, placed an open top jug under the large hose before completely slipping it off of the resivoir.
Keep the large hose elevated until the new resivoir is slipped onto it. Do not allow it to drop, or you'll lose more coolant.
But if it does, you'll just have to add some more coolant, (and clean up the mess.)
There is no need for any special procedure to "purge" air from the system, as the resivoir is the top of the system, and is designed for air to naturally find its way into the resivoir.

Also, be careful with the small vent hose, where it attatches to the engine. It can be broken kinda easily, so go easy on it by not putting any unnecessary stress on it.