I'm guessing the answer is yes, but I would like to confirm... is an '85 BRAT supposed to have a coolant overflow tank in it somewhere? Currently, there isn't one that I can find, and the nipple on the radiator has nothing connected to it.

 

I don't know if it is somehow related, but the temp gauge seems to vary quite a bit, depending on ambient conditions. I've seen it go quite high(when stopped), so just below half(driving while colder out) during the day. It stays fairly steady while driving though. Where on the gauge is 'normal' for these engines?

Your brat would be a ea81

http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?t=104471

 

GD is pretty much right most of the time so I would probbably say no you dont have one.

Edited October 11, 200916 yr by 7point62fmj