Radiator?

1997 TOYOTA COROLLA

175,000 MILES • 1.6L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

DEBRAKAY

MEMBER
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I recently fixed a leak in my radiator. When I went to put water in it, it seemed to be getting hot. There were no leaks anywhere, is that normal to get hot after a few minutes?

Aug 28, 2023 at 2:21 PM

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JACOBANDNICKOLAS

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
110,190 POSTS

Hi,

There could be air in the system. An air blockage can prevent the coolant from properly circulating.

I attached the very vague directions below for refilling the radiator below. See pic 1. Here is what I suggest. When the engine is cold, remove the radiator cap and make sure it is full. Next, with the cap off, start the engine and turn the heater on high. Allow the engine to reach operating temperature while you add coolant as needed.

Pay attention to the heater. If it isn't producing heat, there is likely air still in the system. If the engine does reach temp and continues to climb, raise the engine RPMs to approximately 2K and hold it there for twenty or thirty seconds to see if the temperature returns to normal.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to enlarge)

Aug 28, 2023 at 7:14 PM