Donne Trav

To prevent spillage, should I "drain or extract" some coolant in my '94 before replacing my thermostat? Thanks

Polo Vert

Yep. About a gallon will do it. Anything you can do to reduce the chance of getting and water on the Opti is always a good idea.

armysnipe

You have to drain enough coolant so the upper expansion tank and the lines to the water pump housing are empty. I would drain the radiator from the petcock and use one of those green catch basins that's open on top. You can buy one at auto zone or advanced auto. When your done you can pour it back into the system if it's still good. I also like to use a wet vac when I remove my hoses, to prevent spills. Remember, do not overtighten the thermostat housing bolts.

Donne Trav

The last time I tried unscrewing the "petcock", that brittle "piece of
plastic" crap broke! I never did get it to function. Ended up
releasing coolant from the bottom radiator hose.