on a 23k mile 1999 - looks like a few drops leaking around rubber pipe, on to my garage floor without any pressure fitting that I can see -
Looks like the fix is just to add a hose clamp of some sort.....is this normal?

 

I have found that is is somewhat normal to replace coolant tanks in early 996 and 986 models. The manufacturer of the coolant tanks was changed for the later models. The plastic was poor quality and tends to crack.

 

Replace you tank cap every two years because they break down.

 

No, I don't think coolant leak is normal.
I've learned that your coolant level should not drop, maybe very slight loss over a long time if at all.

The last time I asked the same question...it was the early warning signs of a major "hose bust" waiting to happen. Didn't take advantage of that. Car had to be towed coz' all coolant was lost when the hose busted. So I would suggest you have it checked while the car is still driveable. Whether it's a loose clamp or an old worn hose, get it fixed.

 

Just did my expansion tank..and I have a 2001 C2 with around 26K miles when it happened.

Apparently, it is very common...

 

other than the expansion tank, should any of the hoses be replaced? - If so, then which ones? - please be specific with either pics or part number please.

 

No, not normal. The cooling system is a closed system. The coolant itself should last a very long time and rarely need flushing. Inspect and replace cracked or leaking hoses. Other than that I wouldnt worry about it... unless your the worrying type.

 

mine is cracked, getting it fixed this Thursday through Stuttgard Performance (RSS)

 

I believe this is the latest part # for the CR tank and cap.
996.106.157.03 Equalizing Tank
996.106.447.01 Water Tank Cap

 

I just discovered that my CR tank cap was leaking vapor. It was the original cap.
I replaced it today and fixed things right up. I noticed that the replacement cap is totally redesigned on the inner portion of the cap. I asked the counter tech about the difference in design (Santa Monica Porsche), and he simply stated "the early caps had issues" ... 'nuf said.

Guess I will be keeping an eye on my CR tank as well.

 

You are correct on the tank cap number- I just bought one of these caps today at the dealer (looking at the part number on the plastic bag right now..)

Cost of cap = $23
Coolant = $6
No more stinky coolant smell = Priceless

 

^^^^ It's the LAW.

 

I need to check mine again to see if it is possibly the tank or cap. All I can see is a drop or 2 at the hose (and on my garage floor) right under the exhaust at the rear of the car. Looks like the clamp is not holding enough pressure to keep the coolant from slightly leaking out.

 

Yoops- Have you done a leak-down check on the coolant system?
That is how I found my leak. The system held pressure, therefore the only remaining piece that could have been faulty is the cap.

After you drive the car and let it sit overnight, if you unscrew the CR cap do you hear any pressure escape?

I know there is an over-pressure valve on the top of the CR tank and it has a drain tube that goes down towards the floor- It is possible that it may be faulty. (I have been told that these can go bad too).

Anyway, I am on board with Cosmos- have the system checked out thoroughly if you are still not somewhat sure of where the leak is or the overall condition of your hoses / tank / etc.
Being stuck on the side of the freeway is never fun.

 

I recently started having this problem also and I just had the cap replaced. So far so good. *fingers crossed*