Just like engine oil the engine coolant needs to be changed. This task does not need to be done as often as an oil change but is just as important. Hi, my name is Connor Comes and I’m going to demonstrate how to clean your radiator. The steps to clean and refill a radiator may seem a little scary and long but they are repetitive and easy to compare. At an auto shop a radiator flush will cost you nearly one hundred to one-hundred fifty dollars, this method will only cost about fifty dollars.

Engine coolant is a one-to-one mixed solution of water and antifreeze. This solution is used because of its low freezing point and high boiling point. Coolant is held within the radiator, coolant reservoir and engine itself. The radiator is a series of tubes that uses the outside air to cool the coolant. The radiator is located behind the grill. Access the radiator by lifting the hood or from underneath the vehicle.

Supplies

To flush and fill your radiator is easy and does not take many tools or parts. Engine coolant is universal, but the amount needed will vary from the size of the vehicle. The owner’s manual will have the appropriate amount of engine coolant needed. The antifreeze and water will be mixed to equal parts to make the engine coolant. Distilled water should be used because there are no minerals in the water to damage your engine. At latest three and a half gallons of distilled water is needed for an effective radiator flush and to mix to make coolant. Radiator flush is needed to effectively clean your vehicle and one bottle of 22 fl oz radiator flush is sufficient for most engines. A drain pan and hose is needed to catch the old coolant and flushed water. The hose diameter should be large enough to fit around the end of your drainage valve, if the hose is so big simply place a hose clap or zip tie around the end of the hose. A funnel is needed to pour and not spill while adding coolant. Have a few empty milk jugs, this will be mixing the coolant easier.Rags may be needed because the coolant is very easy to spill.

Step 1:

First park the vehicle on level ground. Parking on level ground allows coolant to flow effectively out of the radiator. If the vehicle was moved allow for the engine to cool. This will make for the handle of the coolant to be much safer. If the coolant was hot, it could be hot or possibly burn the individual performing the drainage.

Step 2:

With the engine cooled, place your drainage pan under the radiator drainage valve. Attach your hose to the end of the valve. The drainage valve will vary from vehicle. The owner’s manual should visually show and describe where it will be located.

The next step is to open the drainage valve and let the coolant flow though the hose into the drain pan. To speed up the draining open the radiator cap. The radiator cap is located on top of the radiator or the coolant reservoir cap acts as the radiator cap.

Step 3:

With the drainage valve closed pour the bottle of radiator flush and as much distilled water the radiator will hold. A funnel will help to prevent spills. If any spills are seen wipe, then up as soon as possible. Place the cap back on the radiator or reservoir.

Step 4:

The next step is to start the vehicles engine and turn the heat on high. Turning the heat on allows the radiator to heat up faster and pushes the flush though the system. Allow the engine to run for ten minutes and observe for leaks. When ten minutes has elapsed turn the vehicle off. Allow the vehicle to cool.

Step 5:

When the vehicle is cool drain the flush and water from the radiator. Use the same steps when originally draining the coolant. With all the old coolant and flush waste take it to your local auto parts store they will dispose of it properly. Do not pour into any water system because antifreeze is very poisonous.

Step 6:

The next step is to fill the radiator with new coolant. Place the plug back and begin to fill the coolant system with coolant. Fill to the appropriate level stated. With the correct amount of coolant in the system it is time to bleed the radiator.

Step 7:

Bleeding the radiator is like bleeding breaks. Bleeding the radiator is done for two reasons. It allows trapped air pockets to escape so the right reading is visible, and that pressure is equal though the system. Routinely check coolant levels before driving. Small amounts of coolant may need to be added.

Step 8:

Anyone can save money when they take simple auto jobs into their own hands. If any questions do arise a quick Google search can explain any vehicle, make, and model. I hope this was informative and have more confidence in the ability of yourself.