Coolant change, how do I prevent an air pocket in the system?

2006 TOYOTA COROLLA
76,000 MILES • 1.8L • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
ROBERT WALBROEHL
  • MEMBER
  • 113 POSTS
I want to change my coolant. I was hoping to just drain the radiator and replace coolant in recovery plastic container. My question is, how do I prevent an air pocket in the system as I do not want a shot spot to affect the engine. Should I leave the cap off and run the car while topping it off as it heats up? Thanks
Bob
Nov 18, 2024 at 10:17 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 54,178 POSTS
I like to use a jack on the front end to raise it up, then have the radiator cap off and the cooling system almost full, then start the engine, as it heats up it might overflow a little until the thermostat opens. As you see the coolant get hot inside the radiator top the coolant off and then install the cap, make sure the coolant reservoir is about half full. Let us know if you need anything else.
Nov 18, 2024 at 12:15 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
ROBERT WALBROEHL
  • MEMBER
  • 113 POSTS
Okay, thanks Ken.
Nov 19, 2024 at 6:59 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 54,178 POSTS
You are welcome, please use 2CarPros anytime we are here to help.
Nov 19, 2024 at 10:18 AM
Avatar
ROBERT WALBROEHL
  • MEMBER
  • 113 POSTS
One more thing. My 2006 Toyota Corolla when started idles high like 1,800 RPMs. After about 1 minute or 2 it's down to 1,200 RPMs. I do not like to shift with the RPMs too high as I am afraid of a transmission problem. Once it's totally warmed up 2 miles from the house it's down without the A/C running to like 700 RPMs. I cleaned the MAP sensor with MAP sensor cleaner which was no help. What else can I do. Waste a lot of gas and time waiting for it to idle down. Thanks for the help.
Bob
Nov 21, 2024 at 12:36 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 54,178 POSTS
Sorry, we only handle one problem per thread, please post your new question here, you must be logged in.

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/new

Cheers, Ken
Nov 22, 2024 at 10:01 AM