1997 Ford F-150 Coolant Flush

FORD F-150
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THEAVNER
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I have a 1997 4.6L V8 f150 ford truck with 70,000 miles. I want change and flush the coolant. What is the best way? I have been told to remove the thermostat and the lower radiator hose to flush out the engine and radiator. However the lower radiator hose enters the engine at a higher angle which makes me think that water poured into the themostat housing with a garden hose will not drain out of the engine since it will have to flow upward. Will a garden hose have sufficient pressure to flush out coolant in this situation? If there is a better way please let me know!

Thanks
Jan 15, 2007 at 3:49 PM
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SERVICE WRITER
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There are different schools of thought. I think the best way is find a place that has a flush machine as it does the best job IMHO.

No petcock on the radiator?

Pressure of the garden hose really shouldn't matter. You want to drain the system, refill it with water and run it and drain it. I like to repeat these steps until just clear water comes out. You can add the flush chemical before you start the process. That stuff makes me a little nervous though.
Jan 15, 2007 at 8:56 PM

Suggested Repair

A shop coolant flush machine is preferred. Otherwise drain the system, refill with water, run the engine, and drain again until the water runs clear. Garden hose pressure is not critical. Flush chemical is optional; some technicians prefer to avoid it. Check whether the radiator has a petcock.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1997 Ford F-150 4.6L wants to flush the coolant and asks whether removing the thermostat and lower radiator hose and using a garden hose will work given the hose angle. The expert prefers a professional flush machine, says hose pressure is not important, and recommends draining, refilling with water, running the engine, and repeating until the water is clear. Flush chemical is optional, though the expert is cautious about using it.

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