Powermaxx

I picked up an 88 Cherokee 2dr (base model) 4.0L Auto with 154k miles. Body is really good shape and worth it to invest in making a good daily runner out of it. It sat for a year or more in a garage so I'm finding little issues (lock on column is out of adjustment...)

Anyway my question: The closed cooling system is new to me. I see no marks on the reservoir to indicate cold/hot fills. So I've been keeping it about half way. Thermostat housing has a little leak so coolant needs to be topped off once in awhile. (It's too cold to change it just yet.) So as I was checking the level I decided to give the upper rad hose a squeeze to see (hear) any coolant and got absolutely nothing! I'm thinking the system not being 100% air tight it is pulling air in the T-Stat gasket hsg. Also noticed last night the heater isn't exactly a furnace down there. (one of the heater hoses is a little flatter making a bend by the T-stat than I like)

Q1 What is the proper fill levels?
Q2 Should the upper rad hose (cold) have any coolant in it?

THX and looking forward to "resurecting" my 88'

(Yes, I've been searching the site for info already...)

Abovetimberline

keep it about 1/2 full,the upper radiator will have coolant in it but you may not feel any flow until the tstat opens,the leak on the tstat housing will allow air in when it cools,I would repair it. the leak will not allow you to add antifreeze,or I should say i would not as long as it is leaking,not having it will allow corrosion to set in and the chance of the cooling system freezing up.