Draining the radiator

CHEVROLET CAVALIER
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LITTLESHUFF86
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I have a 1992 Chevrolet Cavalier RS with a 2.2L 4 cylinder engine. Currently the radiator and resevior are full of water due to the briliance of a friend. I need to put coolant back in the radiator because I have been told that even with water in the system its not being cooled properly. How do I drain the radiator so that I can refill it with coolant?
Oct 10, 2007 at 8:20 AM
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RASMATAZ
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Find the drain plug and when done bleed the system see below if not you might be faced with overheating problem

Always bleed air from cooling system after replacing coolant. Set heater for maximum heat. Remove radiator cap. Loosen drain plug and remove drain bolt (if equipped) from engine block. Drain coolant reservoir. Fill coolant reservoir to MAX mark with 50/50 water-coolant mixture. Loosen bleed bolt and fill radiator up to base of filler neck. Close bleed bolt when coolant flows out without bubbles. Tighten bleed bolt. With radiator cap removed, start and operate engine to normal operating temperature. Add coolant if necessary and check for leaks.
Oct 10, 2007 at 8:56 AM
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LITTLESHUFF86
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Where is the drain plug? (sorry i am not a mechanic...nor mechanically inclined)
Oct 10, 2007 at 1:21 PM
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RASMATAZ
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Not familiar with yours-if you cannot find it, remove the bottom hose.
Oct 10, 2007 at 3:54 PM
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