How to Empty a Radiator in a Car
The radiator in a car is a large tank made of copper/brass or aluminum. The radiator is constructed out of a series of small cooling tubes and fins. Coolant is pumped from the engine into the radiator by the water pump, and through the upper and lower radiator hoses. An electric or mechanical fan located near the radiator blows air across the cooling fins, which in turn draw heat off the engine coolant. Engine coolant should be replaced at periodic intervals determined by your car's manufacturer.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Park the vehicle on a level surface.
-
2
If the engine has been running, allow it to cool completely.
-
-
3
Remove the radiator cap.
-
4
Locate the petcock valve on the lower corner of the radiator.
-
5
Place a waste oil collection pan underneath the petcock valve.
-
6
Open the petcock valve by turning it counterclockwise to drain the radiator.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Find the cooling system capacity listed in the owners manual. Make sure your waste oil collection pan is large enough to hold all the coolant in the system.
If your radiator is not equipped with a petcock valve, you can drain the radiator by disconnecting the lower radiator hose from the radiator.
Engine coolant becomes extremely hot while the engine is running. Always allow the engine to cool completely before servicing the cooling system. Failure to do so could cause scalding or burns.
