GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Draining Procedure

Caution: With a pressurized cooling system, the coolant temperature in the radiator can be considerably higher than the boiling point of the solution at atmospheric pressure. Removal of the surge tank cap, while the cooling system is hot and under high pressure, causes the solution to boil instantaneously with explosive force. This will cause the solution to spew out over the engine, the fenders, and the person removing the cap. Serious bodily injury may result.

  1. Remove the coolant pressure cap.
  2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  3. Place a drain pan under the drain cock.
  4. Remove the radiator drain cock.
  5. Drain the cooling system.
  6. Inspect the coolant.
  7. Follow the appropriate procedure based on the condition of the coolant.
  8. • Normal in appearance--follow the filling procedure.
    • Discolored--follow the flush procedure. Refer to Manufactures instructions.

Filling Procedure

  1. Install the radiator drain cock.
  2. Lower the vehicle.
  3. Important: Use a 50/50 mixture of DEX-COOL antifreeze and deionized water.

  4. Slowly fill the cooling system through the upper radiator hose with a 50/50 coolant mixture until the coolant comes out the coolant air bleed hose.
  5. Fill the radiator with coolant through the surge tank opening to the full line.
  6. Install the radiator cap.
  7. Start the engine.
  8. Run the engine at 2,000-2,500 RPM until the engine reaches normal operating temperature.
  9. Allow the engine to idle for 3 minutes.
  10. Shut the engine OFF.
  11. Allow the engine to cool.
  12. Top off the coolant as necessary.
  13. Inspect the concentration of the engine coolant.
  14. Rinse away any excess coolant from the engine and the engine compartment.
  15. Inspect the cooling system for leaks.