How to Replace the Coolant Recovery Tank in a Chevy Impala

The Chevy Impala has been around for quite a while and you can still get a V-8. Show off your mechanical prowess as you keep the Impala in great shape. For example, the engine needs to run as cool as possible to avoid burning it up. A few easy steps and you can replace the coolant recovery tank to help keep the engine cooler.

Instructions

Remove Old Tank

1

Purchase the coolant recovery tank made for the Chevy Impala, which will be the Flex-a-Lite FLE-32013. The recovery tank is located to the side of the radiator. You'll see the coolant recovery tank connecting to the radiator by way of a single hose.

2

Remove the stovepipe by loosening the clamps. Next, take out the air filter box and the old tank's cap. Put these aside.

3

Use a fluid hand pump to remove the coolant from the old tank. Squirt this coolant into an empty coolant bottle to use later.

4

Take a 10mm wrench and remove the reservoir bolts (4) that hold the coolant recovery tank on the brackets. Tilt the old Chevy Impala reservoir at an angle and loosen the hose clamps (3) to remove the tank.

Install New Tank

5

Look for the two zip ties that hold the electric cable and vent hose in the right place. Use a heavy-duty flashlight, if needed. Release the bolts holding the front mounting bracket and completely take off the rear-mounting bracket.

6

Move the cable out of the way on your Chevy Impala and replace the rear-mounting bracket, but don't tighten the bolts.

7

Place the new coolant recovery tank where you removed the old reservoir. You may need to wiggle it around some in order to get the right placement to match the bolts. Put in the front reservoir bolts, leaving them loose. Install the rear bolts and tighten them.

8

Put the lower feed hose into place and tighten the clamp. Next, do the same with the upper return hose. Follow up by putting the vent line hose in place. Apply lubricant on the seals that meet the cap on the tank.

9

Add the leftover coolant from Step 3 in Section 1. If you need more coolant, use a mixture that is 1:1 antifreeze and water until the recovery tank is just over half full. Put the coolant recovery cap in place and hand tighten it.

10

Mount the air filter package in place and put the stovepipe back onto the Chevy Impala. Take the vehicle for a test drive and then check for leaks and correct any problems you find.