Cooling System: Service and Repair

Whenever the cooling system is opened, either due to a malfunction or during component service, the system must be refilled and purged of all air to ensure proper engine cooling. Refer to the following procedures when filling the cooling system.


1. Ensure all drain plugs are securely tightened, then open bleed screws on heater return hose and upper radiator hose.
2. Move heater control lever to the full heat position.
3. Remove expansion tank from mounting and secure as high as possible.
4. Slowly fill radiator with coolant mixture until no more can be added, then install pressure cap.
5. Continue filling system through expansion tank and close bleed screws as soon as coolant mixture begins to run out.
6. Ensure level in expansion tank is approximately 1-1/2 inches from bottom, start engine and run until thermostat opens.
7. Open bleed screws, then close screws as soon as coolant flows without bubbles.
8. Stop engine, return expansion tank to proper position and allow engine to cool completely.
9. Check level in expansion tank, and ensure coolant level is 3/4-1-1/2 inches from bottom of tank.