Cooling System Draining and Filling Static Fill

Tools Required

J 26568 Coolant and Battery Fluid Tester

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 Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
3. Place a drain pan under the drain cock.
4. Remove the radiator drain cock.



5. Drain the cooling system.
6. Lower the vehicle.
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. Refer to Flushing .

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

1. Raise and support the vehicle.

Important: Inspect the drain cock O-ring for signs of cracks or damage. Replace if necessary.

2. Lubricate the drain cock O-ring with clean coolant prior to installation.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.




3. Install the radiator drain cock.

Tighten
Tighten the radiator drain cock to 2 N·m (18 lb in).

4. Lower the vehicle.

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 Approximate Fluid Capacities in Maintenance and Lubrication.
6. Install the coolant pressure cap.
7. Start the engine.
8. Run the engine at 2,000-2,500 RPM until the engine reaches normal operating temperature.
9. Allow the engine to idle for 3 minutes.
10. Shut the engine OFF.
11. Allow the engine to cool.
12. Top off the coolant as necessary.
13. Inspect the concentration of the engine coolant. Using the J 26568 .
14. Rinse away any excess coolant from the engine and the engine compartment.
15. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.