Antifreeze smell...
radiator cap fails on a hot Sunday trip far from any shops and it makes for a long day. Aero heads and replacement are about 200 times more $$ than a radiator cap.
Me Too! The radiator cap is a very neglected item. I always use a 13LB. Motorcraft cap. It says "RS-62" on the top. Runs about $7.50 at the Ford Parts. Dept. I've never had an overheating issue in hot weather. Also a tip for changing heater hoses, on the Aerostar. You can cut the hoses about 5-6" from the heater core. This way, the factory "Quick Connect" ends can remain, which can be troublesome to remove when they get old. Oh yeah, they are fast and easy to "click on" for the Ford factory workers, as the van is being built. However, the Ford engineers figure they won't be the ones working on it!
Splice in a 3/4" hose connector at the cut, then replace the heater hose with new. It is unlikely for the heater hose to leak at the original heater core location. ususally a leak will develop somewhere upstream of the heater core. You can splice a "T" flush here too, in which you can directly flush the heater core, with a garden hose. This practice will entend the life of your heater core, while providing nice, HOT heat during the winter, providing your thermostat is operating correctly, and at the correct temp. (195 degrees) Ed





