6 Best Remote Reservoir Kits For Tight Engine Bays

When engine bays shrink and components grow, the factory plastic reservoir is almost always the first casualty of limited space. Navigating the clutter of an auxiliary battery, a massive cooling fan, or a custom turbo setup requires a shift to a remote-mounted solution. This transition solves immediate clearance issues while simultaneously allowing for a cleaner, more efficient engine bay layout.

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Chase Bays Power Steering Kit: Best All-In-One

The Chase Bays Power Steering Kit is the definitive choice for enthusiasts who demand a complete, drop-in solution for restricted engine bays. Rather than sourcing individual fittings, lines, and canisters, this kit provides a cohesive system designed to withstand high-pressure environments. Its compact, aluminum construction is specifically engineered for vehicles where every cubic inch of real estate is accounted for.

The system shines in its ability to manage fluid aeration and heat, which are common culprits behind power steering pump failure in tight installations. By moving the reservoir away from the heat-soaked pump, the fluid remains cooler and free of the foam that causes hydraulic noise. Expect a simplified installation process that eliminates the guesswork associated with piecing together custom hose routing.

If the goal is a professional-grade setup that avoids the headaches of custom fabrication, this is the gold standard. It provides the reliability of a engineered system with the aesthetic appeal of a show-car modification. Skip this only if the budget is strictly limited or the vehicle requires non-standard port orientations.

Mishimoto Coolant Reservoir: Top Universal Fit

Mishimoto offers a versatile, slim-profile coolant reservoir that thrives in spaces where larger, rectangular tanks simply will not fit. Its cylindrical design is a functional triumph for builders who need to tuck a reservoir behind a headlight or into a fender well. The included mounting hardware is highly adjustable, providing the flexibility needed for non-traditional installation points.

The sight glass feature is a major benefit for those with cramped bays, as checking fluid levels becomes a matter of a quick glance rather than a mechanical operation. Because it is a universal fitment, it integrates seamlessly into almost any cooling system, regardless of the chassis architecture. This reservoir balances affordability with a build quality that consistently outperforms factory plastic alternatives.

Choose this unit if the primary priority is adaptability and ease of monitoring in a confined space. It is the most reliable “plug-and-play” option for those who want a clean look without custom welding or complex bracketry. If a bespoke, heavy-duty racing solution is needed, look elsewhere, but for 90% of custom builds, this is the smart move.

Moroso Billet Reservoir: Premium Build Quality

When the build demands a component that is as visually striking as it is functional, the Moroso Billet Reservoir stands alone. Machined from high-grade aluminum, this tank is designed for the high-pressure demands of serious performance engines. Its rigidity ensures it won’t warp or weep fluid under extreme heat cycling, a common failure point for cheaper alternatives.

The precision threads and O-ring sealed cap provide a level of security that brings genuine peace of mind in tight engine bays. In such cramped quarters, a leak is not just a nuisance; it can ruin belts, accessories, and paint. This reservoir mitigates those risks by offering a robust, leak-proof enclosure that justifies its premium price tag.

This is the right choice for the builder who views the engine bay as a craft piece and refuses to compromise on hardware quality. It is an investment in durability that prevents the need for future swaps. If the build is a budget-focused driver, this might be overkill, but for a high-end conversion, it is essential.

Canton Racing Tank: The Most Durable Option

Canton Racing is synonymous with track-proven reliability, and their remote tanks are built to handle the harshest environments imaginable. These units are typically thicker-walled than the competition, designed to survive the vibration and heat associated with high-performance racing. For a tight engine bay where the tank might be mounted to a vibrating subframe or a thin bracket, this strength is invaluable.

The internal baffling within these tanks is designed to prevent sloshing, ensuring the pump or cooling system always has access to a consistent fluid supply. This attention to fluid dynamics is what separates a generic tank from a true performance component. It is a heavy-duty solution that prioritizes function above all else.

Select this reservoir if the vehicle sees track time or rigorous use where durability is the primary concern. Its industrial aesthetic is purposeful and translates to a “fit it and forget it” mentality. It is not the lightest option, but it is certainly the most rugged.

Vibrant Billet Reservoir: Best for Custom Fab

Vibrant Performance components are the preferred choice for fabricators who need to build a custom cooling or overflow system from scratch. These reservoirs come with modular ports, allowing the builder to dictate exactly where the hoses enter and exit the tank. This is critical in tight bays where hose routing is often restricted by existing chassis components.

The build quality is exceptional, featuring a clean, minimalist design that tucks away easily. Because of the modular nature of the ports, it is possible to relocate the tank to awkward spaces, such as deep inside a wheel well or tucked beneath the intake manifold. This level of customization is unmatched by universal, fixed-port reservoirs.

This reservoir is for the visionary builder who refuses to let space constraints dictate the layout of the engine bay. It requires more planning and potentially more plumbing expertise than a standard kit, but the payoff is a perfectly optimized system. If a “stock-like” installation is the goal, look at the other options; if a custom masterpiece is the aim, get this.

JEGS Coolant Overflow Tank: Best Budget Pick

The JEGS Coolant Overflow Tank proves that high-quality containment does not always require a high-end price tag. It utilizes a simple, straightforward design that fits into tight gaps where a bulky, complex reservoir might fail. While it lacks the machined billet aesthetics of pricier units, it excels at the core function of fluid management.

For basic overflow needs, this tank is efficient, lightweight, and easy to mount. Its transparent construction or simple sight tubes often make fluid checks quick and painless. It is an ideal solution for those mid-build who have realized they are running out of both space and budget.

Use this for daily drivers, budget projects, or temporary setups where performance needs are standard. It is the most practical choice for those who need to solve a clearance problem without draining their savings. It isn’t a show-piece, but it is a reliable workhorse that fulfills its duties without complaint.

Choosing the Right Reservoir for Your System

When selecting a reservoir, always consider the expansion rate of the fluid being contained. Coolant and power steering fluid react differently to heat, and selecting the wrong tank volume can lead to overflow or air starvation. A tank that is too small will cause the system to vent fluid, while one that is too large may be impossible to mount in a restricted bay.

Check the fitting sizes early in the planning phase to avoid the “adapter trap,” where the cost of custom fittings exceeds the cost of the reservoir itself. Always prioritize a tank that includes a secure cap, as pressurized systems need to maintain a specific seal to function properly. Finally, ensure the chosen unit is compatible with the specific fluid type used in the vehicle to prevent seal degradation.

Where to Mount a Reservoir for Best Results

The golden rule of remote mounting is gravity; for most systems, the reservoir should be placed at the highest point in the loop. This positioning allows air bubbles to naturally migrate toward the reservoir, which acts as a collection point for air to be vented. Mounting a reservoir below the pump or radiator level often leads to persistent air pockets and system cavitation.

Consider heat dissipation when picking a mounting spot, as placing a tank directly against an exhaust manifold or engine block will lead to rapid fluid breakdown. Use rubber-insulated clamps to isolate the reservoir from excessive engine vibration, which can lead to stress fractures over time. The best spot is typically on the firewall or a dedicated frame rail, keeping it away from extreme heat sources while remaining accessible for maintenance.

Key Tips for Mounting and Plumbing Your Kit

When plumbing your remote reservoir, use reinforced, high-pressure hose that is rated for the specific fluid it will contain. Avoid sharp bends that can kink or restrict flow, as these create unnecessary resistance in the system. Always use high-quality hose clamps, preferably the fuel-injection style, to ensure a tight, leak-free seal on every connection.

In tight bays, zip-ties are not a professional mounting solution and will eventually fail under heat. Use steel or aluminum brackets that are bolted directly to the chassis to ensure the tank remains stationary. Label all lines and keep a small spare kit of fittings on hand, as custom plumbing often requires a trial-and-error approach during the initial mock-up.

Remote Reservoir Maintenance and Bleeding

Maintenance of a remote reservoir is essentially an exercise in keeping the system air-free and the fluid clean. Periodically check the mounting hardware for signs of loosening, as thermal expansion can cause fasteners to back out over time. If the system is a power steering setup, listen for whining noises that indicate air trapped in the lines, which necessitates a full bleed.

To bleed the system effectively, raise the front of the vehicle and cycle the steering or run the cooling cycle with the reservoir cap removed. Continue this process until no more bubbles emerge, ensuring that the reservoir never runs dry during the procedure. Regularly inspecting the color and clarity of the fluid will give an early warning of internal pump or hose degradation, allowing for intervention before a catastrophic failure occurs.

Optimizing an engine bay for space requires a blend of disciplined planning and the right hardware. By selecting a reservoir that fits the specific needs of the cooling or hydraulic system, you ensure both longevity and peak performance. With the right mount and a clean installation, a remote reservoir stops being a space-saving compromise and becomes a hallmark of a well-engineered build.