Coolant Service

STANDARD PROCEDURE
COOLANT - ROUTINE LEVEL CHECK

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

The coolant reserve/overflow system provides a quick visual method for determining coolant level without removing radiator pressure cap. With engine cold and not running, observe coolant level in reserve/overflow tank. The coolant level should be between ADD and FULL marks.

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

COOLANT - LEVEL CHECK
The cooling system is closed and designed to maintain coolant level to top of 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 coolant level check in radiator, drain several ounces of coolant from radiator drain cock. Do this while observing coolant reserve/overflow system tank. The coolant level in 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 top of radiator. If not and if coolant level in reserve/overflow tank is at ADD mark, check for:
^ An air leak in coolant reserve/overflow tank or its hose
^ An air leak in radiator filler neck
^ Leak in pressure cap seal to radiator filler neck