2003 4.6 coolant change
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Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 6,648
Likes: 1
From: CT
2003 4.6 coolant change
My 02 Explorer with the 4.6 has about 100k on her and I think it is time to change the coolant. ( I have only had it since 87k )
Should I flush it or just change it.
What is the best way ?
Thanks
Should I flush it or just change it.
What is the best way ?
Thanks
Hotshot
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 11,931
Likes: 180
I bought a plastic TEE at Wal Mart for $2. that splices into the 5/8 inch heater hose up on top of the motor. The third leg is a hose thread and you screw the garden hose onto it. I drain the radiator, leave the drain open, and remove the filler cap on the top tank. TUrn on the hose and let it run. After 3-4 minutes, let it all drain out to get as much water out as possible. Refill with antifreeze and demin water in a 50-50 ratio. Entire system holds 15-16 quarts i think (4 gallons), but some water will stay in the engine block so you will only refill maybe 2.5 - 3 gallons.
----nice thing about the plastic TEE is you can use it as a way to vent air out the top as you refill the antifreeze in the tank.
----nice thing about the plastic TEE is you can use it as a way to vent air out the top as you refill the antifreeze in the tank.
Super Moderator
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 40,024
Likes: 1,519
From: Maine, Virginia
I had the dealer flush mine this summer for $125. In the past I've always used the Tee method and did my own with great success. However, I've become a big fan of the flushing method for the cooling system and the transmission.
CO River Rat
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 3,209
Likes: 0
From: Lake Havasu City AZ
Work -
Unless you have a way of capturing the old coolant, that Tee method may not be a good idea. Many areas (CT?) have restrictions about letting antifreeze loose on the ground, especially if it can get in the storm drain system. Also, lotsa animals like the smell/taste of antifreeze but it will kill 'em........JMHO.
Steve
Unless you have a way of capturing the old coolant, that Tee method may not be a good idea. Many areas (CT?) have restrictions about letting antifreeze loose on the ground, especially if it can get in the storm drain system. Also, lotsa animals like the smell/taste of antifreeze but it will kill 'em........JMHO.
Steve
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