Flushing BX cooling system

[rosey]

I've had my BX since Oct. '02 and I think that it is about time to flush my cooling system.....for those of you that have done it are there any tips that I should be aware of???...any problems with air getting trapped in the system like in a car??...is radiator "flush cleaner" necessary??...Thanks

 

[NY_Yankees_Fan]

Do not use radiator flush additive as per the manual. I had to cover the screen on the front of the air in-take to get it warm enough to open the thermostat. Had to fill and drain about 4-5 times to get the old antifreeze out. I did it the same time I installed the block heater. The plug to drain the radiator on the bottom is just a screw so be careful it does not fall into the pan when your are draining the antifreeze.

 

[Junkman]

When doing radiator cleaning with any flush, you are supposed to remove the thermostat first. I don't like to use a flush unless there is a reason to use it. If the old antifreeze is in good condition, then just drain and refill. If you want to make sure that you get it all out, then pull the thermostat and then put a little air pressure to the thermostat opening with the lower radiator hose disconnected. That should clear out the block without chancing any damage to the radiator. In my opinion, it isn't necessary to get every last ounce of old antifreeze out when replacing unless the old stuff is contaminated for some reason.......

 

[Tdog]

A timely topic, Rosey. I've had my BX for 2 years and I'm supposed to flush as per the manual. However, when I look at the coolant in the radiator it looks pretty good.

Are there any visible signs that tell you the coolant needs to be replaced [besides the passage of time]??

 

[Junkman]

The coolant doesn't go bad as far as the anti freeze protection, however the water pump lubricants get depleted and then you have problems. I have also seen where it can attack the other metal parts when it starts to deteriorate. Changing it is the best method... every 2 - 3 years at the most.