How to Drain a Radiator on a '96 Chevy Truck
The radiator fluid in your 1996 Chevy Truck serves two purposes. It helps to keep the engine cool during operation, and it circulates antifreeze throughout the system so the water in your engine doesn't freeze during the winter. Draining a radiator is a standard car maintenance operation that can be performed by even a newbie mechanic. The main thing to remember is to enusure that radiator fluid is properly disposed of so that it doesn't harm any nearby animals or the environment.
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Instructions
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1
Park your Chevy truck in an area with plenty of room to work. The parking surface should be level and free of any debris or clutter. Set the parking brake and take the keys out of the ignition.
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2
Slide the jack underneath the front jacking point on your Chevy truck. This can vary, depending on your model, so consult your owner's manual for the exact location. Jack the front of the Chevy truck up enough for you to work underneath comfortably.
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3
Allow the engine about twenty minutes or so to cool. Open the hood. Locate the radiator, which is at the front of the engine compartment toward the front bumper. Open the radiator cap by turning it to the left and pressing down. Pull the cap off the radiator.
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4
Position yourself under the radiator. Locate the radiator drain cock, which is a small plastic plug on the underside of the radiatior. Slide the drain pan under the drain cock.
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5
Open the drain cock slowly by turning it counterclockwise with a pair of pliers. The radiator fluid and water mixture inside the radiator will begin to dribble out. Keep the drain cock open until the drain pan is filled. Close the cock by turning it clockwise with the pliers. Empty out the fluid in the pan into the larger cointainer. Repeat this process until no more fluid comes out of the radiator.
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Close the drain cock. Dispose of the radiator fluid properly.
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Tips & Warnings
Follow the specific instructions for your particular '96 Chevy truck.
Dispose of your used radiator fluid properly. Make sure that none drips on the ground in the area, as dogs and cats are attracted to the fluid and will drink it.
