Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Back-flush including Heater Core?

[Dave MacArthur]

I read the recent article (issue 35) and the archives but I still have one question. Why not splice into the heater hose with a tee and back-flush the block and the heater core? The way it is described in the article, I don't think you flush the heater core. Is that correct or am I missing something?



Thanks,



Dave.

 

[rono]

Dave, I read the same article and was wondering the same thing. You were just brave enough to ask. I got a kit several years ago from an auto supply store that had several different size adapters for hoses and fittings so you could hook up to most any vehicle and flush the system. You just hooked up a garden hose to the fittings, attached a hose to the block or head to drain the system, started the engine, let it warm up and turned on the water. The thermostat would close when the cool water got to it but by then there was clear water coming out the drain hose. If you wanted to you could turn the water hose off and let the engine warm up again and reflush. I got some of the Texaco Extended Life Antifreeze and am going to try this on my truck as soon as time permits.

Ron

 

[Dave MacArthur]

Ron-



I just posted my notes on how I did the change/flush. I went ahead and flushed the heater core. The heading for the new post is "Coolant change and flush. My version. "



Dave.

 

[The patriot]

Maybe I'm just a little too cautious here but......

I'd be a little leery of putting cold water into a hot engine block.

Am I being too cautious?

Eric

 

[THancock]

I'd be even more cautious about useing any of the extended life anti freezes also! Read some bad things about those, some of 'em on this very web site.