coolant flush

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Feb 23, 2005 | 10:43 PM

zionatdirt

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coolant flush

Hello all,This is my first post. I have a 1997 f150,223,000 miles. I recently went to bye a radiater "flush kit" ,my antifreeze needs changing badly.I have installed these on all my cars/trucks over the years. A seemingly trustworthy gentlemen behind the counter said that I shouldn't do it myself with a flush kit on this truck.He says the way a lot of newer cooling systems (95 & up) are designed it is hard not to create "air pockets" trying to do a flush myself.I have checked my local garage and it will cost $95. My heating system has worked flawlessly,I don't want to mess it up,but I am very mechanically inclined.If anyone wanted to give me there opinion/experience I would be greatful. thanks,dave.

Feb 24, 2005 | 01:43 PM

73Custom

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From: SD

What's in a 'flush kit'? I've always just drained the coolant, remove one end of each of the hoses (radiator and heater) and removed the thermostat. Then use a garden hose to flush water both ways through the engine, radiator and heater core, until I get clean water both ways. Then install new thermostat, reattach hoses and fill with new coolant. To ensure there is no air pockets, I often leave one heater hose loose as I fill it, until coolant starts to come out of it - then you know the air is out.

Then just be sure to warm it up good, making sure the thermostat opens and engine doesn't get hot. And check the coolant level several times over the next couple days.

Marty

Feb 24, 2005 | 01:53 PM

zionatdirt

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Thanks Marty, A flush kit is just a plastic piece designed to splice into the heater hose,but then gives you threads to screw on the hose. Your idea is even simpler.With gas prices what they are I'll save where I can.

dave

Apr 6, 2005 | 03:55 PM

bigmike09

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From: Houma,La

Marty is right you do not ned the flush kit.I flush both of my vehicles once a year just to be on the safe side.Like marty said just keep flushing it till you get all of he fluid out.

Apr 8, 2005 | 11:34 AM

MrBSS

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From: Chicago Area

I think a flush kit is a good item to do a more thorough job, but its probably unnecessary if the coolant isn't real bad. Also, on our trucks the heater hose (into which the kit's T is inserted) is in a position where any leaks will drip onto the COPs or plugs...not worth the risk.