Cooling System Draining, Filling and Bleeding: Draining
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING:
Never remove the pressure relief cap under any conditions while the engine is operating. Failure to follow these instructions could cause damage to the cooling system or engine, or result in personal injury. To avoid having scalding coolant or steam blow out of the cooling system, never remove the pressure relief cap from a hot Gades bottle. Wait until the engine has cooled, then wrap a thick cloth around the pressure relief cap and turn it slowly one turn (counterclockwise). Step back while the pressure is released from the cooling system. When certain all the pressure has been released, use the cloth to remove the pressure relief cap.
CAUTION:
The coolant must be recovered in a suitable, clean container for reuse. If the coolant is contaminated it must be recycled or disposed of correctly.
CAUTION:
Vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant VC-7-A (in Oregon VC-7-B) or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B51-A1 (yellow color). Always fill the cooling system with the same coolant that is present in the system. Do not mix coolant types.
NOTE:
The addition of Motorcraft Cooling System Stop Leak Pellets VC-6 darkens Motorcraft Premium Gold Engine Coolant from yellow to golden tan.
NOTE:
Less than 80% of coolant capacity can be recovered with the engine in the vehicle. Dirty, rusty or contaminated coolant requires replacement.
- When the pressure is released, remove the pressure relief cap.
3.0L (4V)
- Remove the splash shields.
- Place a suitable container below the radiator draincock (8115).
- Open the draincock and allow to drain.
- Close the radiator draincock when finished.
- Tighten to 2 Nm (18 lb-in).
- Install the splash shields.
NOTE:
Release the pressure in the cooling system by slowly turning the pressure relief cap one half turn counterclockwise.