Clearing up some thoughts on expansion tank replacement
 

Hey everybody, Since I am faced with replacing the expansion tank, I have read numerous posts and some great instructional posts as well. Thanks for all of your genuine input. A couple more questions. I have two X5s, an 03 4.4 and an 03 4.6is. The 4.6 I bought in 09. It has 72K on it and last summer the top hose that wraps around the expansion tank developed a slight leak so I replaced it as well with a new cap and bleeder screw. All went well till a few weeks ago when the expansion tank started leaking. The 4.4 I have onwed since new. It now has 92K on it but it just developed a small leak on the expansion tank.

Here are my questions, I am going to replace them both at the same time. I will most likely order the small hose on the top of the tank because even as careful as I was when I removed it before I broke it because it was so brittle. Should I replace the cap as well? No one has a definitive recommendation on certain hose replacements unless you replace the water pump and or radiator. So are there any other hoses that are recommended to replace at this time? Should I also replace the bleeder screw?

One last question, where is the best place to order these parts? Any and all feed back/recommendations welcome. :dunno:

Weasel if you are reading this post thanks again for your error code help! I just got another check engine code on the 4.6 so I have to get me a diagnostic decoder.

Add this radiator pressure tester kit from your local HB to your toolkit.
http://www.harborfreight.com/media/c...image_1498.jpg

I wouldn't order a new pipe, a piece of hose and 2 clamps should fix the brittle pipe that breaks.

Call your local Radiator Depot. Their prices are just a little more expensive than online.
A radiator damaged during shipping or a defective one is not worth the hassle. I received a defective one and discovered only after complete installation that it leaked.

Thanks for the reply but excuse my ignorance. If I am simply changing the expansion tank, does the entire cooling system need to be pressure tested? I don't have a clue why or how or even what to do when testing a cooling system. This pressure testing kit is way beyond my knowledge and ability level.

Best prices for cooling system parts?
 

I checked with Pelican Parts whom I have ordered from before and they want $85 for the expansion tank, (I need 2). I have read many posts where members paid less than $70. Anyone want to share who might have the best prices. Last year I ordered some OEM stuff from Gault BMW in New York because I used to get things there for my 840. They gave me a decent discount because I was an E31 member. Anyone????