I plan to change my coolant this weekend. Haynes manual says heater core should be backflushed also as part of radiator/coolant maintenance. Is that required when changing/flushing the antfreeze? When I had my Ranger a while back, I didn't backflush the heater core when I flushed the radiator. Opinions?

(I have a 2001 4.0 SOHC.)

 

I use a Prestone flush T thats spliced into a heater hose on my 87. Just hook the garden hose up to it & it backflushes everything including the heater core. Very handy little gadget.

To answer your question, yes you should flush the heater core.

 

Thanks. Coincidentally, I saw that kit in the store when I went to get coolant and went ahead and got it.

 

I think you're going to like that kit, it makes a good flush so simple to do. And when your finished with the flush, just drain the radiator. Then add a gallon of antifreeze & top it off with distilled water.