Before doing a flush, make sure your engine
flywheel wrench is completely cool. The antifreeze can be hot enough to cause injury. Antifreeze is toxic, so put on gloves and eye protection once the engine has cooled.Jacking up the front of your vehicle and placing it on jack stands will make it easier to work underneath the radiator, but if you have a vehicle with plenty of ground clearance, it may not be necessary.Open your hood and find your antifreeze reservoir. To drain your old antifreeze, start by removing your fill cap. The fill cap can be on the radiator, the engine, the pressure tank or one of your hoses.Locate the petcock, a small shut-off valve, which will be located on the bottom of one of the radiator tanks.
It’s possible that it could have a small plastic cover that can be removed with a screwdriver.Place a drain pan under the radiator and open the petcock to let the old antifreeze run out. In some cases, this will be a hose that you’ll detach to let the old fluid drain. Once the antifreeze is done draining, close the petcock.Used antifreeze is considered hazardous waste so we are unable to recycle it in our stores. Most cities and counties have hazardous waste collection sites. We suggest you call your city or county administration or search their website for hazardous waste disposal.Next, add radiator cleaner and water according to manufacturer’s recommendations, and replace the cap.
Start your vehicle, turn your heater on high until the the engine reaches normal operating temperature, then shut your engine off and let it cool down completely.Remove the fill cap and open the petcock to drain the system again. When it’s done draining, be sure to close the petcock.With the fill cap open, use a garden hose to fill the system with water according to manufacturer’s specifications, and replace the cap.Turn on the engine and let it run until it reaches normal operating temperature. Then turn off the engine and let it cool down completely.
Repeat the water flush process. Remove the fill cap and re-fill with water according to manufacturer’s specifications, and replace the cap.You can use distilled water this time if you’re concerned about any remaining minerals from the tap water.Full strength and diluted called pre-mixed antifreeze are available for purchase. If you're using full strength antifreeze, you'll dilute it with water. The proper ratio will typically be . If you're using a pre-mixed antifreeze, you won't need to put any water in the system.
