Engine Coolant Recycling
The use of a waterless, GM approved coolant recycling system on the
vehicle eliminates the need for evacuation. This system is available through
the GM Dealer Equipment program (or the equivalent). This method
removes the used coolant and replaces the used coolant with approved
new or with recycled coolant. When this equipment is not available
use the following procedure.
Draining Procedure
Caution: To avoid being burned, do not remove the radiator cap or surge tank
cap while the engine is hot. The cooling system will release scalding fluid
and steam under pressure if radiator cap or surge tank cap is removed while
the engine and radiator are still hot.
Caution: As long as there is pressure in the cooling system, the temperature
can be considerably higher than the boiling temperature of the solution in
the radiator without causing the solution to boil. Removal of the pressure
cap while the engine is hot and pressure is high will cause the solution
to boil instantaneously -- possibly with explosive force -- spewing
the solution over the engine, fenders and the person removing the cap.
- Ensure that the system
has cooled, then remove the radiator filler cap.
- Place a drain pan under the radiator drain cock.
- Install a tube on the drain cock, if necessary.
- Place the end of the tube
in the drain pan.
- Open the drain cock completely.
- Allow the cooling system to drain until the flow stops. If only
the radiator is drained, up to 40 percent of the old coolant will remain
in the system.
- Place a drain pan under
the engine.
- Remove the drain plug from the side of the engine block, 2.2L
shown.
- Remove the drain plugs
from each side of the engine block, 4.3L shown.
• | There may be more drainage from the radiator at this time. |
• | Allow the engine block to drain until the flow stops. |
Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners
must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring
replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant
are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or
corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified.
These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage
the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when
installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.
- Apply a sealer (GM P/N 12346004)
to the threads and then tighten the engine block drain plug(s).
Tighten
• | Tighten the engine block drain plugs (2.2L) to 15 N·m
(11 lb ft). |
• | Tighten the engine block drain plugs (4.3L) to 18 N·m
(13 lb ft). |
Important: Dispose of the used engine coolant properly. Store the used coolant
in a used coolant Holding Tank awaiting proper disposal or recycling. Do not
pour used coolant down the drain. Dex-Cool® antifreeze is a very
toxic chemical. Disposal into the sewer system or into the ground
water is both environmentally irresponsible and illegal.
• | If the drained coolant is discolored, flush the cooling system.
Refer to
Flushing
. |
• | If the drained coolant appears normal, continue with the filling
procedure. |
Filling Procedure
Notice: Do not add cold water to the cooling system with the engine at or above
operating temperature. Adding cold water causes rapid cooling, resulting in
possible engine damage.
Notice: Do not use a solution stronger than 70 percent antifreeze. Pure antifreeze
can freeze at -22°C (-8°F).
- Ensure that the radiator
drain cock is closed.
- Inspect the strength of the old coolant, before attempting to
reuse. Refer to
Coolant Concentration Testing
.
- When you need additional antifreeze solution:
3.1. | For coolant use Dex-Cool® orange-colored silicate free coolant. |
3.2. | Pre-mix Dex-Cool® at a ratio of 50/50 with clean, drinkable
water. |
- Place a large mouth funnel in the radiator fill opening.
- Slowly add the coolant mixture.
- Fill to ½ inch below the radiator fill opening.
- Start the engine.
- As the cooling system warms up and the thermostat opens, the coolant
level will drop.
- Add coolant until the level is up to the radiator fill opening.
• | Do not spill the coolant onto the exhaust system or other hot
engine parts. |
• | Under some conditions, Dex-Cool® is combustible. |
- Replace the radiator filler cap.
- Inspect the level in the
coolant recovery reservoir, add coolant if needed.
- Test the cooling system for leaks. Refer to
Cooling System Leak Testing
.