Before I drove the car this morning, I removed the radiator cap to find the level AT THE TOP. Now I know it is full so I filled up the recovery tank about 3/4 up. After a long drive the tank was still at the same level. After a few hours of cool down time, the level was about an inch lower so I am hoping that the system is now full.
I am surprised how much more coolant a 26" radiator will hold once the overflow hose is connected to a reservoir tank. At least another gallon of water/coolant.