Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Cooling System - Reverse Flushing

Reverse flushing of the cooling system is the forcing of water through the cooling system, using air pressure in a direction opposite to that of the normal flow of water. This is only necessary with dirty systems or in case of partially plugged systems.

RADIATOR
Drain cooling system and remove radiator hoses from engine. Install suitable flushing gun in radiator lower hose. Fill radiator with clean water and turn on air in short blasts.

CAUTION: Internal radiator pressure must not exceed 138 kPa (20 psi) as damage to radiator may result. Continue this procedure until water runs clear.

ENGINE
Drain radiator. Refer to Draining Cooling. Remove hoses from radiator. Remove engine thermostat and reinstall thermostat housing. Install suitable flushing gun to thermostat housing hose. Turn on water, and when engine is filled, turn on air, but no higher than 138 kPa (20 psi) in short blasts. Allow engine to fill between blasts of air. Continue this procedure until water runs clean. Install thermostat using a new housing gasket. Fill cooling system. Refer to Refilling Cooling.