Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Reverse Flushing System
Drain the cooling system. Remove the thermostat housing and thermostat. Install the thermostat housing. Disconnect the radiator upper hose from the radiator and attach the flushing gun to the hose. Disconnect the radiator lower hose from the water pump and attach a lead-away hose to the water pump inlet fitting.
Connect the water supply hose and air supply hose to flushing gun. Allow the engine to fill with water. When the engine is filled, apply air in short blasts, allowing the system to fill between air blasts. Continue until clean water flows through the lead away hose.
Remove the lead away hose, flushing gun, water supply hose and air supply hose. Remove the thermostat housing and install the thermostat. Install the thermostat housing with a replacement gasket. Refer to THERMOSTAT Replacement. Connect the radiator hoses. Refill the cooling system with the correct antifreeze/water mixture. Refer to CAPACITIES AND RECOMMENDED FLUIDS, DESCRIPTION . Refer to Refilling the Cooling System.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.