Changing of thr Radiator Pressure-Flushing and Coolant

122SD mm 20.02.01

    Note: For additional instructions on cleaning and flushing the engine cooling system, see the applicable engine manufacturer's maintenance and operation manual.

  1. Apply the vehicle parking brakes, then chock the tires. Tilt the hood.
  2. Place a suitable container under the elbow of the radiator outlet pipe and the radiator. The container should hold at least 60 quarts (57 liters) of fluid.

    3. Warning: Do not remove or loosen the surge tank 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.

  3. Remove the surge tank cap.
  4. Remove the drain plug at the radiator end tank; see Fig.. Allow the coolant to drain.

    1. Transmission Coolant Hose

    2. Drain Plug

    3. Lower Radiator Hose

    Fig. 1, Typical Coolant Drain Plug Location

  5. If possible, drain the engine block of coolant.
  6. Fill the cooling system with water.
  7. Operate the engine until the water reaches operating temperature.
  8. Drain the water and coolant mix from the cooling system.
  9. Fill the cooling system with water again.
  10. Drain the water from the cooling system.
  11. Fill the cooling system with the appropriate coolant. Refer to the engine manufacturer's service literature for specific coolant information.
Note:
Parent topic: Engine Cooling/Radiator
Document Number: 0000125439
Manual Publication Date: 2025-02-11
Topic Publication Date: 2024-06-21