Topic: Filling the radiator
in Forum: C3 Cooling and Heating Systems
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Lifetime MemberEveryone feel free to throw something at me...How do I fill the radiator? 71 vette with manual tranmission and no ac. It has an aluminum radiator with the metal expansion tank. How do I add coolant for the first time? I'm guessing that you take the upper radiator hoes off and fill the radiator as much as you can, add to the proper level in the expansion tank and then add more as necessary. Am I close? Way off? Completely insane?
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Frederick, MD - USA
Joined: 9/8/2003
Posts: 3398
Vette(s): 1969 convertible L71 427/435 4-speed black interior
Not a bad way to go. Disconnect the upper hose from the thermostat housing, loosen the clamp on the radiator neck end and turn the hose so you can use it like a funnel. Fill it up, reconnect it properly and tighten the clamps. It wouldn't hurt to add some Water Wetter as well. From here you can fill the balance of the system through the expansion tank.
Let the engine run until it reaches normal operating temperature. At that point if the coolant level is too low (it probably will be), then you can add coolant until it stops being drawn ito the system. Then you can add coolant until it reaches the proper level marked on the tank.
Just check it regularly for a while to make sure it maintains the proper level.
Let the engine run until it reaches normal operating temperature. At that point if the coolant level is too low (it probably will be), then you can add coolant until it stops being drawn ito the system. Then you can add coolant until it reaches the proper level marked on the tank.
Just check it regularly for a while to make sure it maintains the proper level.
in Forum: C3 Cooling and Heating Systems
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