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BMW 3-Series E46 Expansion Tank 1999-2006

  1. BMW E46 3-Series Aluminum Expansion Tank, Part 4: Prototype Installation

    BMW E46 3-Series Aluminum Expansion Tank, Part 4: Prototype Installation

    Another update on our E46 expansion tank project! Last time we showed off some images of our prototype unit, noting the numerous precise features we built into our design. This time we are installing the tank in our test vehicle to confirm fitment with the stock shroud and all coolant connection points. In addition, we will check out clearance between the tank and the belt-drive system to ensure appropriate fitment.

    Removing the Stock BMW E46 Expansion Tank

    Stock BMW E46 expansion tank installed
    Stock BMW E46 expansion tank installed

    First we need to remove the stock tank from our test vehicle. As you can see in the image above, the stock fan shroud is the first component to come out before we tackle the expansion

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  2. E46 3-Series Aluminum Expansion Tank, Part 3: First Prototype

    E46 3-Series Aluminum Expansion Tank, Part 3: First Prototype

    Big news for our E46 followers! Our aluminum prototype of the BMW E46 expansion tank is complete. Gone are the days of roadside tows and antifreeze puddles messing up your driveway. Enjoy the images of our awesome prototype below!

    First Prototype Images

    Mishimoto prototype BMW performance parts
    Mishimoto prototype BMW performance parts

    Mishimoto prototype E46 expansion tank
    Mishimoto prototype E46 expansion tank

    We designed five different CNC-machined pieces to attach to this

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  3. E46 3-Series Aluminum Expansion Tank, Part 2: 3D Tank Design

    E46 3-Series Aluminum Expansion Tank, Part 2: 3D Tank Design

    Quick project update! As noted in our last post, we had finished collecting data points and dimensional information for the stock tank and were setting our sights on creating a tank of our own.

    After pulling our engineers out from under shop vehicles, we set them behind the computer to get this project moving. Check out some of our initial 3D models!

    Mishimoto expansion tank, 3D model
    Mishimoto expansion tank, 3D model

    Mishimoto expansion tank, 3D model
    Mishimoto expansion tank, 3D model

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  4. E46 3-Series Aluminum Expansion Tank, Part 1: Stock Tank Evaluation

    E46 3-Series Aluminum Expansion Tank, Part 1: Stock Tank Evaluation

    Enthusiast groups' feedback plays a massive role in our product development process. Not only is it a great way to bounce ideas off our potential customers, but it also allows us to see exactly what our customers want and need for their vehicles. This project is no different. Due to a substantial amount of demand via forums and social media, we decided it was time to get the ball rolling on this coolant expansion project.

    Stock Expansion Tank

    In typical BMW fashion, this tank was quite unique and featured some very interesting components, both internally and externally. First, a look at the exterior of the tank. Many of you are very familiar with this, based on the rate of failure reported for this plastic tank.

    Stock E46 3-series coolant expansion tank
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