engine oil & collant/antifreeze capacities

[reevoanders]

I recently did an oil/oil filter change and a coolant/antifreeze change on my 850 SE 2.0 20 valve, (I bought it about 3 weeks ago), with 78800 miles. The owner's manual states that oil/oil filter and coolant capacity is 5.3 litres and 7.2 litres, respectively.

I only added 5.0 litres oil to the engine, and the cooling system takes only about 7.0 litres, until max. My vehicle is level in both cases. Why is this the case? Am I doing something wrong?

Thank you.

[Martin Cox]

I think the most likely explanation is that the capacities you quote are the dry capacities. When draining the oil and coolant in the normal way it's impossible to remove all the old liquid. Some will remain in various oilways, water jackets and hoses, etc. In my opinion the amount of liquid you've had to add when changing them is close enough to the quoted capacities not to worry.

Martin Cox

[Martin Cox]

Not really on your original topic, but noting how long you've had the car and its mileage, if you haven't already done so, it's well worth checking the cambelt history and replacing it if there is the slightest doubt.

Martin Cox

[reevoanders]

Hi Martin

Thanks very much for both of your responses. About the cambelt: The car came with a service record stating that the last company to service this car was a company called STEADMANS AUTO REPAIRS, but for the life of me, I'm yet unable to track them down to verify the actual servicing they've done on this car. The service record states that a cambelt change was done on 16 March 1998, at 56251 miles (and rubber-stamped accordingly). I seem to think this company is (or was ever) non-existent. Any help/advice on this?

Thank you.

Reevo Anders

[Martin Cox]

Reevo,

Sorry I can't shed any light on Steadmans Auto Repairs but some garages do leave a sticker somewhere under the bonnet when a cambelt is changed. This may help to corroborate the service history. Having said that, my local dealer doesn't seem to do it.

I'm no expert on 850 service intervals but I think the recommendation is that the belt and tensioner is changed every 80,000 miles or eight years. Perhaps some of our more knowledgable members would care to comment?

Martin Cox

[reevoanders]

Thanks for that, Martin. And thank you for the interest that you show - really appreciated!

Reevo


>Reevo,
>
> Sorry I can't shed any light on Steadmans Auto Repairs but
>some garages do leave a sticker somewhere under the bonnet
>when a cambelt is changed. This may help to corroborate the
>service history. Having said that, my local dealer doesn't
>seem to do it.
>
>I'm no expert on 850 service intervals but I think the
>recommendation is that the belt and tensioner is changed every
>80,000 miles or eight years. Perhaps some of our more
>knowledgable members would care to comment?
>
>Martin Cox

[markas]

Hi ya,
just reading through your thread. As you have a 2.0se 20v you will have an interval change for the cambelt of 80k miles. Formthe ages and mileage i would change it as soon as i can as these engines being the interference type when they snap it will cost you big time. The aux belts needs to be replaced too. I personally change both of mine every two years or 60k miles max.

On the coolant point of view you need to jack the car up on the driversside as this helps in the drainage i have found. Whyyou haven't added the full amount is that the missing percentage is sitting in the heater maxtrix. it is best to drain out, then fully fill with distilled, run the engine for five and drain again. Then fill up with 50/50. what i do then is carry around a litre of mix in the boot until the level settles.

As for the oil you should get the full amount in if you change you oil frequently. I am not into additives but a engine flush won't go a miss if you are not running with a quality synthetic brand. some people with jump up in the air over this about oils seals but you needs to know one way or the other i see.

just my two pennies on serviceing mine for 200k miles.
94 2L 20v

[reevoanders]

Hi Mark

Thanks for that - I'll make a note and have a go at it.

Reevo