If just wanting to drain the radiator, simply remove the drain plug at bottom of radiator.
To flush the radiator, do the following:
Raise and safely support vehicle for easier access.
With the ignition off, engine cool, car in Park and emergency brake set, remove the radiator cap. Place a bucket or pan under the radiator drain plug and open it. Close the plug once the coolant flow ends. For more thorough draining, remove the plug(s) in the engine block (if so equipped) to release the coolant that remains in the engine.
If the old coolant appears rusty or contaminated, flush the system with a radiator-cleaning product to further remove sediment. With all drain plugs closed, fill the radiator with a flush/cleaner product and plain water. Then run the vehicle with the heater on high for as long as the flush product's instructions specify. Once the engine cools, drain the flushing solution, refill the radiator with plain water, and repeat the sequence following the flush's instructions.
When refilling with coolant, consult your vehicle's owner's manual and the antifreeze bottle for proper coolant-to-water ratio which can vary between 40% and 70% antifreeze based on vehicle and climate. Fill the radiator appropriately then fill the overflow reservoir to the appropriate level with a 50/50 mix. Clean up any spills immediately. Close the cap(s) and run the vehicle up to operating temperature with the heater on high to circulate the coolant throughout the system. Once the engine cools, check for leaks. After a few days of driving, double-check the coolant mixture with a hydrometer or test strips. Adjust the concentration as needed.
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Sunday, December 21st, 2008 AT 10:06 PM
