is there an aluminum coolant expansion tank for V8 S4s?

[emilio]

i'm replacing my coolant expansion tank for the second time (this Vaico only lasted 15,000mi). as with most other issues with this engine, the problem is a lot of heat in a little compartment - namely, that this HDPE tank is a foot over an exhaust manifold. i might try sticking on some heat shield tape, but it's really just a bad place.

i'd love to get rid of the whole damn thing and put an aluminum tank in (well, at least when my finances have stabilized). i haven't run across anything drop-in for B6/B7 S4s, nor have i seen someone fit a generic one.

the stock tank is about 1 liter, has a large outlet and small inlet, and integrates a level switch. has anyone found something that can fit without much drama?

on a related note, my attempts to fix the tank on the cheap have all failed. there are literally only two or three adhesives in existence that will adhere to polyethylene (seriously, go look at all the glues that say "not recommended for PE"), and, for the record, the Loctite Plastics Bonding System will adhere but will not survive coming up to temperature.

- emilio

[emilio]

...no? bummer. well, when i have the time i'll take some measurements and start browsing catalogs.

- emilio

[Nollywood]

In answer to your question, no.There’s no off the shelf aluminium coolant reservoir, at least not that I’m aware of.

However...you could always fit a C5 RS6 tank, in the C5 RS6’s OEM location. In the scuttle chamber. Then move your battery to the luggage compartment, if it isn’t already there from the factory.

[AndreNY]

an Original Audi Tank will last you at least 60-70k miles and they are only $60

[p3u]

How many horse power does the aluminum tank give you?

[lyates1987]

i don't think the reservoir cap would fare well with an aluminum reservoir, plus how wouldn't be able to tell if you're losing coolant until the light started flashing on your dash.

[blitz2190]

you could also add some extra heat shielding in that area, it would benefit your wiring harness as well.