Dumb question on coolant level

The overflow says something like "high" and "low". Other vehicles I've had are more like "hot" and "cold". Is it the same? Or more to the point, if my truck sits just a little above "low" when cold, is that correct, or should I top it off a bit?

 

I find that the tank level doesn't change much, hot or cold. Thus I keep my vehicles more toward the "high" level when cold. Just don't go over that mark. Having the coolant level in between high/low is a good compromise.

 

Don't forget to check the level in the radiator too from time to time but only do that when the engine is cold.

 

I fill mine to the "Full" line. When it's running, the level will drop about an inch or so because the coolant is in the engine. As long as it stays between these levels, you're good.
Replace your radiator cap. If the old one is weak it might not be working properly.

 

i keep it around the top line when cold. Plenty of room for expansion when hot even at the top of the line.

 

High is hot, low is cold. If you over fill the reservoir, it’s not gonna hurt YOU. It simply spits the excess out. It’s not exactly environmentally friendly to spit coolant on the ground. Motorcyclist don’t like it either. Nothing like coming to a stop, setting your foot in a slippery puddle, then doing the splits with a motorcycle between your legs.

If you work on your cooling system, say replacing a popped hose, I like to fill the radiator, let it gurgle a bit, top it off. Put a little in the reservoir. Then start and rev the engine for a good amount of time, enough for the thermostat to open. Then once hot, top off the reservoir to just above the upper line. Then in a day or two, top it off again.

Reservoirs loose a slight amount from evaporation so they need topped off again every so often.

 

Something tells me, the answer to your question is in the owners manual.
I’m not trying to be a prick. I’m just trying to stay out of a debate.

I’ll give you a hint. You check it and fill it when the engine is cold.

 

Topped mine off to the reservoir full line before the last road trip for parts. Still at that line.

 

The expansion reservior isn't there to provide an exact measurement. Its just a convenient way to get a quick look at the coolant level.

Best place to check the level is under the rad cap when cold

 

Thread jacking a bit here.

I wonder if anyone has ever tried the waterless coolant, I think it was by a company called Evans. As any manufacturers would claim, it’s the greatest thing in the world and will change your life. Just I’ve never heard of anyone trying it.