Engine Coolant Flashing

[Khalid]

Did anyone attempted flashing the engine coolant to replace it?
IF so how is it done?

I went to a mechanic and he could not find how to flash the system other than opening the radiator hose (which leads to the thermostat location) and then started the engine to pump out all the coolant. I am sure there must be another way. Any feedback?

Thanks in advance
Khalid
Sy

 

[dgoodhue]

Re: Engine Coolant Flashing

I am guessing you want to flush the system? The radiator has a drain on driver side (bottom, engine compartment side) It does make a little bit of mess because the stream coolant hits the frame.

 

[Khalid]

Re: Engine Coolant Flashing

Thanks Dave

Is there a schematic somewhere which I can look at, that you know of?
It would be easier that way I guess.

Thanks

 

[gkrcr882]

Re: Engine Coolant Flashing

The proper way is to get a flushing kit that tee's into a heater hose, then hook up a garden hose, remove the radiator cap, turn on the hose and start the engine. When the engine gets up to temp the t-stat will open, allowing all the crud in the block and heads as well as the radiator to be flushed out. Replace all the coolant with the proper mix, and your set.:2cents:

 

[Bill Z]

Re: Engine Coolant Flashing

Prestone sells a kit for flushing the system. It involves a T connector that you put in your heater line. You hook up a garden hose pipe to it. It also has a spout that you put into the radiator inlet which then dumps the flushing water away from the frame. Use this kit with the Prestone two step flush (one is a cleaner and the second step is a neutralizer).

Works great for me.

 

[Don W.]

Re: Engine Coolant Flashing

:2cents: For draining the rad and not making a mess:
1) remove the left wheel well.
2) use the original lower IC radiator rubber flap as a kinda funnel under the rad drain to bring the water out over the frame.
3) Place a bucket under the end and go for it.
Sounds weird but it works and no mess.

 

[Khalid]

Re: Engine Coolant Flashing

Thanks people. I cannot find the Preston Kit here in Qatar.
I think I will have to do it the manual way and then get the truck washed within jackup washing places. They are cheap here, almost $10 to do the whole truck including steam cleaning of the engine bay.

Have a good weekend
Khalid

 

[Robert Lone]

Re: Engine Coolant Flashing

Go easy on the steam....