Hello YT folks.

Background info: 99 4Runner, Limited 3.4 w/ 4WD and RLD
Project: install a dual battery system
Issue: need to relocate coolant overflow reservoir

Options:

1) copy kobusliferemotely and purchase a 1985 coolant overflow reservoir
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-ge...7-4runner.html

2) copy csl's and relocate original overflow reservoir
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-ge...ry-set-up.html

3) install universal mr gasket coolant overflow reservoir
http://www.partstrain.com/store/deta...r/G129133.html

4) install moroso coolant overflow reservoir
http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/de...0186&ppt=C0331

my question(s) to the community or those that are more knowledgeable.

a) which is better? use plastic or aluminum for the coolant overflow reservoir (note, I reside in the republic of Kalifornia, behind the orange curtain)

b) after some scouring of the interwebz, it seems like the overflow reservoir needs to be 2 pints/1 quarter, that being said, I see many that are 1 pint reservoirs, is it safe to do that?

c) regarding option 1, what is the difference between replacement and dorman? (aside from cost)
http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByDepa...TA/PICKUP/1985

thanks in advance and please feel free to include/add any questions/comments/thoughts that I may have left out

 

You can rotate it 90 degrees with no issues. Does that solve your problem?

It doesn't need to be any set size, you just need to fill it halfway. If there's too much coolant in the system and it needs to release (you fill on really cold day, and run the engine really hot) you run the risk of rupturing your reservoir, but you want it enough in there that it can replenish without you having to check it every few days.