Component Tests and General Diagnostics
COOLANT CONDITION AND PROTECTION TESTWARNING: Never remove the cooling system cap under any conditions while the engine is operating. Failure to follow these instructions could result in damage to the cooling system or engine and/or personal injury. To avoid having scalding hot coolant or steam blow out of the cooling system, or reservoir, use extreme care when removing the cap from a hot cooling system or reservoir. Wait until the engine has cooled, then wrap a thick cloth around the pressure cap and turn it slowly until the pressure begins to release. Step back while the pressure is released from the cooling system. When certain all the pressure has been released, (still with a cloth) turn and remove cap.
1. Remove radiator cap following precautions. Check coolant for dirty or rusty appearance.
2. If coolant is not dirty or rusty in appearance, check coolant level and concentration.
3. If coolant is dirty or rusty in appearance, drain the cooling system, flush and refill.
4. Check coolant concentration for recommended protection level using Rotunda Battery and Anti-Freeze Tester 021-00046 or equivalent. If concentration is low, partially drain the cooling system and add 100 percent anti-freeze solution meeting specification, such as Premium Cooling System Fluid E2FZ-19549-AA and B (ESE-M97B44-A and ESE-M97B43-A) (in Canada Motorcraft CXC-8-B) or equivalent, to obtain the recommended protection level.