Cooling System Pressure-Flush
- Park the vehicle on a level surface, set the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Open the hood.
- Place a suitable container under the lower elbow of the radiator outlet pipe and under the radiator. The container should be capable of holding 60 quarts (57 L) of fluid.
- Remove the surge tank pressure/filler cap.
- Remove the drain plug located at the elbow of the lower radiator outlet pipe. Allow the coolant to drain.
- Disconnect the radiator upper and lower hoses. Attach the flushing gun nozzle to the radiator at the lower radiator hose opening. Run the water until the radiator is full.
- Gradually, apply air pressure to help dislodge sediment build up in the radiator core.
- Shut off the air at the pressure gun nozzle and allow the radiator to refill with water, then repeat the previous two steps until clean water flows from the radiator.
- Detach the gun nozzle from the lower radiator hose opening. Connect the hoses.
- Place a pan under the coolant filter to catch engine coolant.
- Remove the coolant filter. Install and tighten a new filter.
- Fill the cooling system with new coolant.
- Install the pressure/filler cap.
- Start the engine and turn on the cab heater. Allow the engine to warm to normal operating temperature. Check the radiator and hoses for leaks. Repair as required.
- Shut off the engine and check the coolant level. See "Coolant Inspection" 20–01.
Note: See the engine manufacturer's operation and maintenance manual for cooling system maintenance. The engine manufacturer's manual is provided with each new vehicle at the time of delivery.
Warning: Do not remove or loosen the radiator cap until the engine and cooling system have completely cooled. Use extreme care when removing the cap. A sudden release of pressure from removing the cap prior to the system cooling can result in a surge of scalding coolant that could cause serious personal injury.
Warning: Coolant, conditioners, and coolant filters must be sent to proper recyclers.
Warning: When flushing the radiator, do not apply more than 10 psi (103 kPa) air pressure. Excessive pressure can damage the radiator.
Important: All liquid that is flushed out of the radiator must be collected and disposed of properly. Pouring contaminated water down the drain is illegal.