In other words, a full recovery tank does not indicate a full system unless you know for sure the system is tight and expanding and contracting with temperature, causing the level in the recovery tank to go up and down.
Then, after fully cooling, it should return to the original level. Noting the level in the coolant recovery/surge tank, operate the vehicle until fully warmed up and then observe the coolant level in the tank, which should be higher than it was cold. The first thing to do is pull the radiator cap on a cold engine and verify a full radiator. Something we all should do periodically is to check to see if the cooling system is developing pressure when hot and vacuum when cold. Your problem is most likely the float like everyone says.
