HOW-TO SECTION
How to Drain and Flush the
Cooling System
Drain and flush the cooling system as
follows:
HOT COOLANT
To avoid scalding from the
expulsion of hot coolant, never
remove the cooling system
pressure cap while the engine is
at operating temperature. Wear
adequate protective clothing
(face shield, rubber gloves,
apron, and boots). Remove the
cap slowly to relieve pressure.
1. With the engine cool, drain the
previous solution from the engine
and radiator. Dispose of the
coolant in an environmentally
friendly manner, according
to state and/or federal (EPA)
recommendations.
2. Refill the cooling system
with clean, soft water and a
good cooling system cleaning
compound, such as those
listed in Table 46 in the
Specifications section. If the
engine is warm, fill slowly to
prevent the rapid cooling and
distortion of the metal castings.
3. Start the engine and operate it for
fifteen minutes to circulate the
solution thoroughly.
4. Stop the engine and allow it to
cool.
5. With the engine cool, drain the
cooling system completely.
6. Refill the cooling system with
clean, soft water and operate it for
fifteen minutes.
7. Stop the engine and allow it to
cool.
8. With the engine cool, drain the
cleaner residue from the cooling
system.
9. Refill the system with the required
coolant. Refer to section How to
Select Coolant.
10. Entrapped air must be purged
after filling the cooling system.
To do this, allow the engine to
warm up without the pressure cap
installed. With the transmission
in neutral, increase engine speed
above 1000 RPM and add coolant
as required. Install the pressure
cap after the coolant level has
stabilized at the bottom of the
radiator filler neck.
110
All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. 01/04)
6SE484
0401
Copyright © 2004 DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION