How does it work?

When do you need one?

How do you run the plumbing?

Whats the difference between a radiator surge tank and a radiator overflow?

 

 

good question(s). ive been thinkin about getting one, but couldn't figure out if its necessary on any level

 

Is this what is known as a catch can? And if so, what are its benefits?

 

The radiator overflow tank and the surge tank are one in the same. The metal one just looks better, and costs more. Forge makes one, as well as one for the power steering.

 

Thats incorrect. surge tank has pressure in it just like rest of water jacket/radiator. overflow bottle has no pressure. it just serves to allow the expanding water a place to go. not sure what the purpose of of surge tank would be? my guess is it makes a great place to purge the air from the sytem. usually placed higher than the rest of system. when sir reaches surge tank in cant re-enter the system

 

we use them on cars where you cannot use a radiator in a standard location, like flat to the ground under a turbo.......they work well if set up properly, if not set up properly, they work like crap

 

http://www.amsperformance.com/galler...2_itemId=10982

http://www.amsperformance.com/galler...2_itemId=11006

So Im guessing from what you just stated, this is not a radiator surge tank

 

and the catch can is for the oil/air that blows out the valve cover so that it doesn't get recirculated into your turbo intake... which is how its set up from factory..

 

People SUUUURGE tank for a radiator... catch can is a different thread