semperfiws6

What is the proper procedure for filling the cooling system? Seems like I can never get it full.

xpndbl3

iTrader: (23)

leave the cap off, unplug the fan to allow the thermostat to open and keep topping off the radiator, watch your temp so it doesn't overheat of course.

teke184

iTrader: (5)

fill it cold.
fill the overflow to the "cold" level

heat it up to temp for a while...or even a few times.

check the overflow when cold and top off till its at "cold level"
repeat as needed.



generally when cold the radiator "looks" low, but as long as the overflow tank has fluid in it...you're fine

teke184

iTrader: (5)

or are you looking at the pita "Low Coolant" light on the dash?

that sensor goes bad ALOT!!
pull the plug on it and check your coolant every oil change.

or buy the $40 sensor and replace

5.3LJimmy

iTrader: (10)

Remove the upper radiator hose from the radiator and fill it from there till it runs over, then reconnect and fill the radiator. This fills the engine and will allow the the thermostat to open when you crank it up. Top off the radiator after a couple cycles of the thermostat.

LS6427

iTrader: (2)

Man, some of this stuff is pretty funny.

Start the engine while cold with the radiator cap off.

Stand there and wait for the coolant to flow. (maybe 10-15 minutes)

If the level drops, top it of IMMEDIATELY. If it doesn't, and its flowing, its full, period.

.....If you're checking it every few days after topping it off and its low....you have a leak somewhere. If you can't see any exterior leaks, while its running AND after shutdown for about 10-15 minutes, and you DON'T have a resleeved block where you could drop a sleeve......you need a new radiator cap.

.

SOMbitch

iTrader: (8)

I "burp" mine by squeezing the upper hose when the t-stat opens. You can see the bubbles coming out of the cap and watch the level drop. Refill repeat. It never hurts to elevate the front of the car a little as this helps the bubbles move through the system.