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Cooling System Flushing - Without Oil Contamination

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford F-550 Super Duty, 2013 Ford F-450 Super Duty, 2013 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and 2013 Ford F-250 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
SPECIAL TOOL(S)

G07970960
 Rotunda Water Test Strip 5 Pack
328-00007
GENERAL EQUIPMENT

15.1 - 45.4 L (4 - 12 gal) distilled water
2 heater hoses, 19 mm (3/4 in) diameter, 61 cm (24 in) long
1 garden hose, 16 mm (5/8 in) or 19 mm (3/4 in) diameter
6 No. 12 hose clamps
3 hose coupling adapters, 7.6 cm (3 in) to 10 cm (4 in) long, either 16 mm (5/8 in) X 19 mm (3/4 in) (for 16 mm (5/8 in) garden hose) or 19 mm (3/4 in) X 19 mm (3/4 in) (for 19 mm (3/4 in) garden hose)
MATERIAL

Item Specification
Motorcraft® Engine Cooling System Iron Cleaner
VC-9		 -
NOTE: For the coolant flow diagrams, refer to ENGINE COOLING  in the Description and Operation portion.
  1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
  2. Fabricate a fresh water supply hose.
    • Cut the garden hose to length. The hose must reach from a fresh water supply faucet to the vehicle.
    • NOTE: The heater hose will prevent kinking in tight areas of the engine compartment.

      Using a coupling adapter and 2 hose clamps, attach a 61 cm (2 ft) length of heater hose to the garden hose.

      Fig 1: Identifying Fresh Water Supply Hose
      G07481691Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  3. Fabricate a drain hose.
    • NOTE: The heater hose will prevent kinking in tight areas of the engine compartment.

      Using a coupling adapter and 2 hose clamps, attach a 61 cm (2 ft) length of heater hose to the remaining section of the garden hose to be used as a drain hose.

    Fig 2: Identifying Drain Hose And Clamps
    G07481692Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  4. WARNING: Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.

    Release the pressure in the cooling system by slowly turning the pressure relief cap one-half turn counterclockwise. When the pressure is released, remove the pressure relief cap.

  5. Using a suitable suction devise, siphon all contents and contaminants from the degas bottle.
  6. Open the radiator draincock and drain the coolant.
  7. NOTE: The quick connect coupling illustrated is to show the spring clip release location only. The quick connect coupling on the hose may differ.

    Pull the lower radiator hose spring clip up until the end of the clip is in the detent on the quick connect coupling and disconnect the lower radiator hose quick-connect coupling at the mid-point between the radiator tank and the engine, and drain all the contaminants from the lower radiator hose.

    • Connect the lower radiator hose quick-connect coupling when finished.
      • To install, push the spring clip in place and connect the lower radiator hose quick connect coupling, making sure the coupling is secure.
        Fig 3: Locating Degas Bottle-To-Engine Hose Quick Connect Coupling Spring Clip
        G07411254Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  8. Release the clamp and disconnect the engine-to-oil cooler hose from the oil cooler and drain the LH cylinder block.
  9. Remove the thermostats. For additional information, refer to THERMOSTAT .
  10. Remove the gasket from the thermostat assembly and install the gasket and the coolant outlet connection.
    • Tighten the bolts to 10 Nm (89 lb-in).
  11. Remove the Air Cleaner (ACL) and the ACL outlet tube. For additional information, refer to INTAKE AIR DISTRIBUTION & FILTERING .
  12. Release the clamp and disconnect the heater return hose from the lower radiator hose.
  13. Using a coupling adapter and 2 hose clamps, connect the fabricated fresh water supply hose to the heater return hose.
  14. Route the fabricated drain hose from under the vehicle and, using a hose clamp, connect the fabricated drain hose to the lower radiator hose.
  15. Using hose pinch pliers, clamp the upper radiator hose, the oil cooler return hose and the lower radiator hose between the mid-point quick connect coupling and the engine.
  16. Install the pressure relief cap.
    NOTE: Use of hot water during this procedure will improve removal of cooling system contaminants.
  17. Turn on the fresh water supply and allow the water to flush the cylinder block of contaminants.
  18. Turn the water off when finished.
  19. Remove the hose pinch pliers from the upper radiator hose.
  20. Turn on the fresh water supply and allow the water to flush the radiator of contaminants.
  21. Turn the water off when finished.
  22. Remove the hose pinch pliers from the lower radiator hose and the oil cooler return hose.
  23. Connect the engine-to-oil cooler hose to the oil cooler and position the clamp.
  24. Remove the pressure relief cap.
  25. Disconnect the fresh water supply hose from the heater return hose and the drain hose from the lower radiator hose.
  26. Connect the heater return hose to the lower radiator hose and position the clamp.
  27. Close the radiator draincock.
  28. Install the ACL and the ACL outlet pipe. For additional information, refer to INTAKE AIR DISTRIBUTION & FILTERING .
    NOTE: After filling the engine with Motorcraft® Engine Cooling System Iron Cleaner, carry out the remaining steps of the procedure within 24 hours. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
  29. NOTE: The quick connect coupling illustrated is to show the spring clip release location only. The quick connect coupling on the hose may differ.

    Pull the upper radiator hose spring clip up until the end of the clip is in the detent on the quick connect coupling, disconnect the upper radiator hose quick-connect coupling from the coolant outlet connection and add 1.89L (2 qt) of Motorcraft® Engine Cooling System Iron Cleaner to the engine via the coolant outlet connection opening.

    • Connect the upper radiator hose when finished.
      • To install, push the spring clip in place and connect the upper radiator hose quick connect coupling, making sure the coupling is secure.
        Fig 4: Locating Degas Bottle-To-Engine Hose Quick Connect Coupling Spring Clip
        G07411254Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  30. Fill the cooling system with hot water.
    1. Fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
    2. NOTE: The degas bottle cap must be loose so that the cooling system does not get pressurized.

      Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.

    3. Start and idle the engine until the coolant level stabilizes.
    4. If the coolant level drops below the minimum fill line refill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
      • Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
    5. Run the engine at 2, 000 RPM for 2 minutes.
    6. Bring the engine to an idle.
    7. If the coolant level drops below the minimum fill line refill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
      • Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
    8. Repeat Steps  5 through until the coolant level stabilizes. Shut the engine off.
    9. Fill the degas bottle to 20 mm (0.787 in) above the maximum fill line. Install the degas bottle cap.
  31. Select the maximum heater temperature and blower motor speed settings.
  32. Start the engine.
  33. Using a scan tool, select active command and set the cooling fan to ON.
  34. NOTE: Failure to run the engine at 2, 000 RPM for 1 hour will result in insufficient cleaning of the cooling system.

    Using a scan tool, select active command and set the engine RPM to 2, 000 and run the engine for 1 hour.

  35. Return the engine to idle speed, shut the engine off and allow the engine to cool.
  36. WARNING: Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.

    Release the pressure in the cooling system by slowly turning the pressure relief cap 1/2 turn counterclockwise. When the pressure is released, remove the pressure relief cap.

  37. Using a suitable suction device, siphon all contents and contaminants from the degas bottle.
  38. Open the radiator draincock and drain the cooling system. Leave the radiator draincock open.
  39. Release the clamp, disconnect the engine-to-oil cooler hose from the oil cooler and drain the LH side of the cylinder block.
  40. Disconnect the battery ground cable. For additional information, refer to BATTERY, MOUNTING AND CABLES .
  41. Remove the RH fender splash shield. For additional information, refer to FRONT END BODY PANELS .
  42. Completely cover the starter with waterproof plastic.
  43. NOTE: Use a 3/8" long ball hex socket driver, such as Snap-on® # FABL12E, to remove the drain plug.

    Remove the RH cylinder block drain plug and drain the RH side of the cylinder block.

  44. NOTE: The quick connect coupling illustrated is to show the spring clip release location only. The quick connect coupling on the hose may differ.

    Pull the lower radiator hose spring clip up until the end of the clip is in the detent on the quick connect coupling and disconnect the lower radiator hose quick-connect coupling at the mid-point between the radiator tank and the engine, and drain all the contaminants from the lower radiator hose.

    • Connect the lower radiator hose quick-connect coupling when finished.
      • To install, push the spring clip in place and connect the lower radiator hose quick connect coupling, making sure the coupling is secure.
        Fig 5: Locating Degas Bottle-To-Engine Hose Quick Connect Coupling Spring Clip
        G07411254Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  45. Close the radiator draincock.
  46. Install the RH cylinder block drain plug.
    • Tighten to 60 Nm (44 lb-ft).
  47. Connect the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose to the engine oil cooler and position the clamp.
  48. Remove the Air Cleaner (ACL) and the ACL outlet tube. For additional information, refer to INTAKE AIR DISTRIBUTION & FILTERING .
  49. Release the clamp and disconnect the heater return hose from the lower radiator hose.
  50. Using a coupling adapter and 2 hose clamps, connect the fabricated fresh water supply hose to the heater return hose.
  51. Route the fabricated drain hose from under the vehicle and, using a hose clamp, connect the fabricated drain hose to the lower radiator hose.
  52. Using hose pinch pliers, clamp the engine oil cooler return hose and the lower radiator hose between the mid-point quick connect coupling and the engine.
  53. Install the pressure relief cap.
  54. NOTE: Failure to flush all the Motorcraft® Engine Cooling System Iron Cleaner from the cooling system will result in shortened coolant protection against corrosion of the cooling system.

    Turn on the fresh water supply and allow the water to flush the heater core and radiator system until the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.

  55. While the water is flushing the heater core and radiator system, use a clear, clean approximately 1 L (1 qt) container to collect some of the drain water and verify the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  56. If the drain water in step  55 shows signs of foam, bubbles or discoloration, continue to flush the heater core and radiator system with fresh water and repeat step  55 until the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  57. Turn off the fresh water supply.
  58. Open the radiator draincock and drain the cooling system. Use a clear, clean, approximately 1 L (1 qt) container to verify the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
    • Close the radiator draincock when finished.
  59. If any of the drain water in step  58 shows signs of foam, bubbles or discoloration, repeat steps  54 through  58.
  60. Using hose pinch pliers, clamp the upper radiator hose.
  61. Release the clamp and disconnect the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose from the engine oil cooler and drain the LH side of the cylinder block.
  62. Turn on the fresh water supply and allow the water to flush the LH side of the cylinder block until the water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  63. While the water is flushing the engine, use a clear, clean approximately 1 L (1 qt) container to collect some of the drain water and verify the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  64. If the drain water in step  63 shows signs of foam, bubbles or discoloration, continue to flush the engine with fresh water and repeat step  63 until the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  65. Turn off the fresh water supply and allow the LH side of the engine block to drain.
  66. Connect the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose and position the clamp.
  67. Remove the RH cylinder block drain plug and drain the RH side of the cylinder block.
  68. Turn on the fresh water supply and allow the water to flush the RH side of the cylinder block until the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  69. While the water is flushing the engine, use a clear, clean approximately 1 L (1 qt) container to collect some of the drain water and verify the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  70. If the drain water in step  69 shows signs of foam, bubbles or discoloration, continue to flush the engine with fresh water and repeat step  69 until the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  71. Turn off the fresh water supply and allow the RH side of the engine block to drain.
  72. Install the RH cylinder block drain plug.
    • Tighten to 60 Nm (44 lb-ft).
  73. Remove the hose pinch pliers from the lower radiator hose and the oil cooler return hose.
  74. Turn on the fresh water supply and allow the water to flush the front of the engine and coolant pump.
  75. While the water is flushing the front of the engine and coolant pump, use a clear, clean approximately 1 L (1 qt) container to collect some of the drain water and verify the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  76. If the drain water in step  75 shows signs of foam, bubbles or discoloration, continue to flush the front of the engine and coolant pump with fresh water and repeat step  75 until the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  77. Turn off the fresh water supply.
  78. NOTE: The quick connect coupling illustrated is to show the spring clip release location only. The quick connect coupling on the hose may differ.

    Pull the lower radiator hose spring clip up until the end of the clip is in the detent on the quick connect coupling and disconnect the lower radiator hose quick-connect coupling at the mid-point between the radiator tank and the engine, and drain all the water from the lower radiator hose. Use a clear, clean approximately 1 L (1 qt) container to verify the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.

    • Connect the lower radiator hose quick-connect coupling when finished.
      • To install, push the spring clip in place and connect the lower radiator hose quick connect coupling, making sure the coupling is secure.
        Fig 6: Locating Degas Bottle-To-Engine Hose Quick Connect Coupling Spring Clip
        G07411254Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  79. If any of the drain water in step  78 shows signs of foam, bubbles or discoloration, repeat steps  74 through.
  80. Disconnect the fresh water supply and drain hoses from the heater return hose and the lower radiator hose.
  81. Connect the heater return hose to the lower radiator hose and position the clamp.
  82. Release the clamp and disconnect the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose from the engine oil cooler.
  83. NOTE: The quick connect coupling illustrated is to show the spring clip release location only. The quick connect coupling on the hose may differ.

    Pull the oil cooler return hose spring clip up until the end of the clip is in the detent on the quick connect coupling and disconnect the oil cooler return hose quick-connect coupling from the lower radiator hose.

    Fig 7: Locating Degas Bottle-To-Engine Hose Quick Connect Coupling Spring Clip
    G07411254Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  84. Release the clamp and disconnect the quick-connect coupling from the oil cooler return hose.
  85. Using a coupling adapter and 2 hose clamps, connect the fresh water supply hose to the oil cooler return hose.
  86. Using a hose clamp, connect the drain hose to the engine oil cooler feed pipe.
  87. Turn on the fresh water supply and allow the water to flush the engine oil cooler until the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  88. While the water is flushing the oil cooler, use a clear, clean approximately 1 L (1 qt) container to collect some of the drain water and verify the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  89. If the drain water in step  88 shows signs of foam, bubbles or discoloration, continue to flush the oil cooler with fresh water and repeat step  88 until the drain water is free of foam, bubbles or discoloration.
  90. Turn off the fresh water supply.
  91. Disconnect the fresh water supply hose from the engine oil cooler return hose.
  92. Disconnect the drain hose from the engine oil cooler feed pipe.
  93. Connect the quick connect coupling to the engine oil cooler return hose and position the clamp.
  94. Push the spring clip in place and connect the engine oil cooler return hose to the lower radiator hose quick connect coupling, making sure the coupling is secure.
  95. Connect the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose to the engine oil cooler and position the clamp.
  96. Remove the waterproof plastic from the starter.
  97. Remove the hose pinch pliers from the upper radiator hose.
  98. Install the ACL and the ACL outlet pipe. For additional information, refer to INTAKE AIR DISTRIBUTION & FILTERING .
  99. Connect the battery ground cable. For additional information, refer to BATTERY, MOUNTING AND CABLES .
  100. Fill the cooling system with low hardness, low chloride water. Tap water which is verified with Rotunda Water Test Strip 5 pack 328-00007 or equivalent is acceptable. Alternatively, use water treated by reverse osmosis, or water that is de-ionized or distilled.
    1. Fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
    2. NOTE: The degas bottle cap must be loose so that the cooling system does not get pressurized.

      Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.

    3. Start and idle the engine until the coolant level stabilizes.
    4. If the coolant level drops below the minimum fill line refill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
      • Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
    5. Run the engine at 2, 000 RPM for 2 minutes.
    6. Bring the engine to an idle.
    7. If the coolant level drops below the minimum fill line refill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
      • Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
    8. Repeat Steps  5 through  7 until the coolant level stabilizes. Shut the engine off.
    9. Fill the degas bottle to 20 mm (0.787 in) above the maximum fill line. Install the degas bottle cap.
  101. WARNING: Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.

    Release the pressure in the cooling system by slowly turning the pressure relief cap 1/2 turn counterclockwise. When the pressure is released, remove the pressure relief cap.

  102. Disconnect the battery ground cable. For additional information, refer to BATTERY, MOUNTING AND CABLES .
  103. Open the radiator draincock and drain the cooling system.
    • Leave the radiator draincock open.
  104. Release the clamp and disconnect the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose from the engine oil cooler and drain the cylinder block.
  105. Completely cover the starter with waterproof plastic.
  106. Remove the RH cylinder block drain plug and drain the cylinder block.
  107. NOTE: The quick connect coupling illustrated is to show the spring clip release location only. The quick connect coupling on the hose may differ.

    Pull the lower radiator hose spring clip up until the end of the clip is in the detent on the quick connect coupling and disconnect the lower radiator hose quick-connect coupling at the mid-point between the radiator tank and the engine, and drain all the water from the lower radiator hose.

    • Connect the lower radiator hose quick-connect coupling when finished.
      • To install, push the spring clip in place and connect the lower radiator hose quick connect coupling, making sure the coupling is secure.
        Fig 8: Locating Degas Bottle-To-Engine Hose Quick Connect Coupling Spring Clip
        G07411254Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
  108. Close the radiator draincock.
  109. Release the clamp and remove the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose.
  110. Install a new engine-to-engine oil cooler hose and position the clamps.
  111. Install the RH cylinder block drain plug.
    • Tighten to 60 Nm (44 lb-ft).
  112. Remove the waterproof plastic from the starter.
  113. Install the RH fender splash shield. For additional information, refer to FRONT END BODY PANELS .
  114. Connect the battery ground cable. For additional information, refer to BATTERY, MOUNTING AND CABLES .
  115. NOTE: Make sure the thermostat gasket is in place on the thermostat assembly prior to installation.

    Using a new thermostat gasket, install the thermostats. For additional information, refer to THERMOSTAT .

  116. Fill and bleed the cooling system. For additional information, refer to COOLING SYSTEM DRAINING, FILLING AND BLEEDING .
  117. Install a new pressure relief cap.
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