'02 Coolant Drain
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,754
Likes: 267
'02 Coolant Drain
Can anyone offer advice ... or are there tips I should know ... before I drain the coolant to install a 178 deg thermostat in my '02 C5?
I assume the radiator has a drain port ... where? Any tricks to open?
Is there an air bleed? Don't see one ...
Anything to be aware of regarding the thermostat replacement?
Thanks in advance!
-DJ
I assume the radiator has a drain port ... where? Any tricks to open?
Is there an air bleed? Don't see one ...
Anything to be aware of regarding the thermostat replacement?
Thanks in advance!
-DJ
Racer
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 388
Likes: 6
The radiator drain is on the passenger side bottom pointing towards the engine, A 1/4" socket wrench will fit, only half a turn then pull.
If you turn the front wheels all the way to the passenger side you can get at it without jacking or ramps.
If you turn the front wheels all the way to the passenger side you can get at it without jacking or ramps.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 3,334
Likes: 4
From: Midland TX
I just flushed and replaced coolant in my 99. I could reach the drain plug with the tires straight - an my car is lowered. The plug is right below the metal line going to the a/c condenser. I used a 1/4" extension on a ratchet. Turn CCW with ratchet and then pull the drain plug out some with your fingers. Coolant will flow out the bottom. (BTW, my old 99 had ears on the drain plug instead of the 1/4" hole)
There is a small hose that goes from the top of the radiator to the coolant tank on the right fender. This will allow air to escape from the top of the radiator to the tank. I fill my coolant tank with coolant and then start the car to let the coolant circulate. Top off as necessary.
Haven't had any problems.
Racer
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 444
Likes: 56
From: DeBary Florida
I just flushed and replaced coolant in my 99. I could reach the drain plug with the tires straight - an my car is lowered. The plug is right below the metal line going to the a/c condenser. I used a 1/4" extension on a ratchet. Turn CCW with ratchet and then pull the drain plug out some with your fingers. Coolant will flow out the bottom. (BTW, my old 99 had ears on the drain plug instead of the 1/4" hole)
There is a small hose that goes from the top of the radiator to the coolant tank on the right fender. This will allow air to escape from the top of the radiator to the tank. I fill my coolant tank with coolant and then start the car to let the coolant circulate. Top off as necessary.
Haven't had any problems.
Did my '04 yesterday, had to run it up on a 2 x 12 though since I didn't have a drain pain low enough to fit under it. One other thing my drain plug didn't want to move at all...Sprayed some penetrating Lube on it let it sit for a few minutes and turned easily. Also when you do turn it CCW don't turn it too far, there's a pin on the drain plug and many people in the forum have sheared it off.
