Checking and Adding Coolant

NOTE: Do not remove radiator cap for routine coolant level inspections. The coolant level can be checked at the coolant reserve/overflow tank.

CHECKING
The coolant reserve/overflow system provides a quick visual method for determining the coolant level without removing the radiator pressure cap. With engine idling and at normal operating temperature, observe coolant level in coolant reserve/overflow tank. The coolant level should be between the ADD and FULL marks.

COOLANT SERVICE
It is recommended that the cooling system be drained and flushed at 84,000 kilometers (52,500 miles) or 3 years, whichever occurs first. Then every two years or 48,000 kilometers (30,000 miles), whichever occurs first.

ADDING
Do not remove the radiator cap to add coolant to the system. When adding coolant to maintain the correct level, do so at the coolant reserve/ overflow tank with a 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol antifreeze (containing Alugard 340-2 A) water. Remove the radiator cap only for testing or when refilling the system after service. Removing cap unnecessarily can cause loss of coolant and allow air to enter system. This produces corrosion.

LEVEL CHECK-SERVICE
The cooling system is closed and designed to maintain coolant level to the top of the radiator.

WARNING: Do not open radiator draincock with engine running or while engine is hot and cooling system is under pressure.

When vehicle servicing requires a coolant level check in the radiator, drain several ounces of coolant from the radiator drain cock. Do this while observing the coolant reserve/over flow system tank. The coolant level in the reserve/overflow tank should drop slightly. If not, inspect for a leak between radiator and coolant reserve/overflow system connection. Remove radiator cap. The coolant level should be to the top of the radiator. If not and if coolant level in reserve/overflow tank is at the ADD mark, check for:
- An air leak in the coolant reserve/overflow tank
- An air leak in the radiator filler neck
- Leak in the pressure cap seal to the radiator filler neck