Cooling System Bleeding

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Pickup, 2003 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford F450 Super Duty, 2003 Ford Excursion, and 2003 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: If the air discharge remains cool and the engine coolant temperature gauge does not move, engine coolant level is low in the engine and must be filled. Stop engine, allow to cool and fill cooling system as described.

Turn heater controls to maximum and set air discharge to instrument panel vents. Turn blower to high. Fill cooling system with 50/50 mixture of coolant and water. Pause several minutes for circulation. Start engine and run at 2000 RPM for 5 minutes. Feel for hot air at instrument panel vents. If air discharge remains cool and coolant temperature gauge does not move, coolant level is low.
Stop engine and allow it to cool. Top off coolant as necessary. Start engine and allow it to idle until normal operating temperature is reached. Hot air should discharge from instrument panel vents. Coolant temperature gauge should maintain a stable reading in middle of range. Upper radiator hose should feel hot to touch. Stop engine and allow it to cool. Top off coolant as necessary. Check for coolant leaks.