bleeding air from radiator

1997 FORD ESCORT
115,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • FWD • MANUAL
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DONPRUETTE
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
Why would it be necessary to bleed a cooling system and if so how is it done ? I am going to flush and refill system anyway so will that do it ?
Jan 18, 2016 at 5:04 PM
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CARADIODOC
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 34,321 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Some systems bleed by themselves, others don't. Watch the temperature gauge or feel the upper radiator hose to tell if coolant is circulating.

When an air pocket forms under the thermostat, that will prevent it from opening. Thermostats open in response to hot liquid. Hot air won't do it. If you have to bleed the air out manually, look for a bleeder screw on the thermostat housing. If there is none, there will be a temperature sensor or threaded plug on or near that housing that can be removed. Remove something that will let the air out as you add coolant at the radiator. If you have to unplug a sensor, do that with the ignition switch off so a diagnostic fault code won't be set.
Jan 18, 2016 at 5:12 PM
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