Draining and Filling Cooling Systems

Draining and Filling Cooling System

^ Tools Required
- J 26568 Coolant and Battery Tester

Draining Procedure

Caution: To avoid being burned, do not remove the radiator cap or surge tank cap while the engine is hot. The cooling system will release scalding fluid and steam under pressure if radiator cap or surge tank cap is removed while the engine and radiator are still hot.





1. Remove the coolant pressure cap.
2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
3. Place a drain pan under the drain cock.
4. Open the radiator drain cock.
5. Drain the cooling system.
6. If a complete engine block drain is required, remove the engine block drain plugs.
7. Inspect the coolant.
8. Follow the appropriate procedure based on the condition of the coolant.
^ Normal in appearance - Follow the filling procedure.
^ Discolored - Follow the flush procedure.

Filling Procedure

Notice: The procedure below must be followed. Improper coolant level could result in a low or high coolant level condition, causing engine damage.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.





1. Close the radiator drain cock.
^ Tighten the radiator drain cock to 2 Nm (18 inch lbs.).
2. If the engine block drain plugs were removed, perform the following procedures:
^ Apply pipe sealer to the drain plugs.
^ Install the drain plugs.
^ Tighten the drain plugs to 18 Nm (13 ft. lbs.).
3. Lower the vehicle.
4. Open the cooling system bleeder screws.

Important: Use a 50/50 mixture of DEX-COOL antifreeze and clean, drinkable water.

5. Slowly fill the cooling system with a 50/50 coolant mixture. Refer to Capacities - Approximate Fluid.
6. Close the cooling system bleeder screws.
7. Install the coolant pressure cap.
8. Start the engine.
9. Run the engine at 2000 - 2500 RPM until the engine reaches normal operating temperature.
10. Allow the engine to idle for 3 minutes.
11. Shut the engine off.
12. Allow the engine to cool.
13. Top off the coolant as necessary.
14. Inspect the concentration of the engine coolant using J26568.
15. Rinse away any excess coolant from the engine and the engine compartment.