8:29 pm
Club Member
January 20, 2009
Offline
I need to replace my windshield washer fluid bottle and I also want to replace the cheapo overflow bottle I ended up using after installing the fenders.
I have an idea to use a couple of aluminum (or stainless steel) water bottles like the kind you see at REI if I can find them in the right sizes. A larger one for washer fluid and another smaller one for the overflow. I'm thinking there shape will give me better mounting options with the space I have available. I've seen some aluminum overflow bottles available but for $$$. Plus, I like to see if I can fab things together and make them work. 😀
Is there any reason why this would not work?
11:53 pm
Should work but the radiator overflow bottle needs to be large enough so if never goes dry. Coolant if pushed in when the engine gets hot and sucks it out as it cools. Quart size should be OK.
2:07 am
Club Member
January 20, 2009
Offline I found a stainless steel 64oz (2 quart) bottle at REI. I have a spot where I can fit 2 side by side. I'm thinking drill a hole in the bottom of each for the washer fluid pump (bottle 1) and overflow hose line (bottle 2). Then drill a small whole in the caps to allow air in and out.
2:36 am
Are the lids ok at temperatures like an overflowing radiator? I'd give you a hard time about a redneck fix, but the stainless steel has a bit of a bling feel to it so I'm not sure where to land.
2:39 am
May 4, 2004
Offline Be sure to mark them "non potable" 
11:05 pm
Club Member
January 20, 2009
Offline So I ended up using a couple of 64oz stainless steel bottles. Inside of caps are stainless as well. Drilled one hole in the bottom of one for the washer pump. Drilled one hole at the top of the other for the overflow hose (open system). Reinstalled the grommet from the washer pump and installed a new grommet for the overflow hose. Then used some fire extinguisher mounts mounted upside down and secured in place. This is on the driver's side inner fender. Here's the result...
