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How do you drain oil from a radiator?

Published in Coolant Draining 2 mins read

To drain a radiator, you need to drain the coolant, not oil. Here's how you do it:

Draining Coolant from a Radiator

Draining the coolant from your vehicle's radiator is a relatively straightforward process. It's often necessary when performing cooling system maintenance or repairs. Here are the steps to follow:

Locating the Drain Plug

The drain plug is typically located at the bottom of the radiator. This position allows for gravity to effectively drain the fluid.

Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual to identify the specific location of the drain plug if you are unsure.

Preparing to Drain

Before you start:

  • Ensure the engine is cool. Draining a hot radiator can be dangerous.
  • Gather necessary tools, including a suitable wrench for the drain plug.
  • Have a drain pan ready to catch the used coolant.

The Drainage Process

Here's the step-by-step procedure:

  1. Position the drain pan directly beneath the radiator's drain plug. This will prevent coolant from spilling onto the ground.
  2. Using the wrench, carefully **loosen the drain plug**. Don’t remove it completely at this stage, just loosen it enough for coolant to start flowing.
  3. Allow the coolant to flow into the pan. The drain plug may need to be removed entirely once the flow slows.
  4. Once the coolant has fully drained, reinsert and tighten the drain plug. Ensure it is secure, but do not overtighten.

What to Do After Draining

After draining, you will want to:

  • Properly dispose of the old coolant, as it is toxic and can be harmful to the environment.
  • Flush your cooling system according to your vehicle's service guidelines if you are completing more extensive maintenance.
  • Refill the radiator with fresh, new coolant, making sure to use the correct type and ratio specified by your car's manufacturer.
Step Action
1 Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the radiator.
2 Place a pan under the drain plug.
3 Loosen the drain plug.
4 Allow coolant to flow into the pan.
5 Tighten the drain plug when the coolant stops flowing.

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