Coolant Condition Check

1. Check radiator core.

NOTE: With the introduction of a new radiator braze process, there is no longer an approved service method for repairing radiator core leaks. Due to the type of flux used during brazing, the two-component epoxy material previously used will not adhere to the aluminum radiator core. If the radiator core leaks the radiator should be replaced.

2. Check transmission fluid cooler connection leaks.
3. Check to see that the fitting nut is fully tightened. If the leak persists, clean surface thoroughly. Apply Silicone Rubber (Clear) D6AZ- 19562-AA or equivalent meeting Ford specification ESB-M4092A in undiluted form around the leaking connection. Allow it to dry for one hour.
4. Check radiator coolant level.
5. Check engine coolant level in the radiator coolant recovery reservoir at least once a month.
6. At normal engine operating temperature, the engine coolant level should be at the FULL HOT mark. If engine coolant level in the radiator coolant recovery reservoir is less than the above indicated levels, fill radiator coolant recovery reservoir with a 50/50 mixture of Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid E2FZ-19549-AA (in Oregon, F5FZ-195490-CC in Canada Motorcraft CXC-8-B) or equivalent meeting Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A to the specified levels.

NOTE: With a cold engine, the engine coolant level must be maintained at or above the FULL COLD mark.

7. In the event no coolant is observed in the radiator coolant recovery reservoir or when an engine coolant level change does not occur, check the system as follows:
1 With the engine cold, remove the pressure relief cap and inspect filler neck sealing gasket for foreign material between the gasket and cap diaphragm. Rinse the pressure relief cap in clean water.
The pressure relief cap used on this system is unique; replace only with proper pressure relief cap.
2 Remove radiator overflow hose at the radiator connection. Remove radiator coolant recovery reservoir hose from fender apron and flush with clean water.
3 Inspect radiator overflow hose for obstructions, cracks or cuts. Replace if necessary.
4 Install radiator coolant recovery reservoir hose and radiator coolant recovery reservoir. Connect at radiator connection.
5 Replenish coolant in cooling system as required.
6 Install pressure relief cap.
A low engine coolant level in the radiator can cause poor heater and defroster performance. If this condition exists, perform the following:
- With cold engine, remove pressure relief cap.
- With 50/50 mixture of Ford Premium Engine Coolant E2FZ-19549-AA (in Canada CXC-8-B) or equivalent meeting Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A and water, fill radiator coolant recovery reservoir to indicated level and replace pressure relief cap.
- Start the engine and run until the water thermostat opens.
- Observe the engine coolant level in the radiator coolant recovery reservoir. Adjust engine coolant level as necessary by adding a 50/50 mixture of Ford Premium Engine Coolant E2FZ-19549-AA (in Canada CXC-8-B) or equivalent meeting Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A and water.
- Check for leakage at:
+ all the hoses and hose connections.
+ radiator seams, radiator core and radiator draincock.
+ all the cylinder lock core plugs and drain plugs.
+ edges of all the cooling system gaskets.
+ transmission fluid cooler fittings.
+ vehicle heating system components.
+ water pump.
- Examine the oil level dipstick for evidence of engine coolant in engine oil. Turn the engine OFF.
- Check the radiator for evidence of transmission fluid in coolant (leakage at transmission fluid cooler). Install a cooling system analysts to assist in testing the engine cooling system. Follow the manufacturer's recommended connections and testing procedures.

8. Check coolant condition with Battery and Anti-Freeze Tester.
9. Check the engine coolant for a dirty or rusty appearance. Replace the dirty or rusty coolant to protect the cooling system from corrosion damage. Replace the coolant.
if coolant condition is satisfactory, check the coolant concentration for proper protection level. Use Rotunda Battery and Anti-Freeze Tester, or a hydrometer for testing. Maintain a protection level of at least -30° (-20°F) to preserve anti-rust corrosion protection and ensure proper engine operating temperature.

WARNING: NEVER REMOVE THE PRESSURE RELIEF 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 PRESSURE RELIEF CAP FROM A HOT COOLING SYSTEM OR RESERVOIR. WAIT UNTIL THE ENGINE HAS COOLED, THEN WRAP A THICK CLOTH AROUND THE PRESSURE RELIEF CAP AND TURN IT SLOWLY UNTIL PRESSURE BEGINS TO RELEASE. STEP BACK WHILE THE PRESSURE IS RELEASED FROM THE COOLING SYSTEM. WHEN CERTAIN ALL PRESSURE HAS BEEN RELEASED, (STILL WITH A CLOTH), TURN AND REMOVE PRESSURE RELIEF CAP.

If the concentration level is low, partially drain the cooling system by opening the radiator draincock or by partially removing the lower radiator hose. Secure the radiator draincock or hose clamp and add a 100 percent concentration of Ford Premium Engine Coolant E2FZ- I 9549-AA (in Oregon, ESFZ-19549-CC in Canada, Motorcraft CXC-8-B) meeting Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A to obtain the recommended protection level. Wet the rubber sealing surface of the pressure relief cap before installing the pressure relief cap tightly on radiator coolant recovery reservoir.

10. Check the cooling system hoses and clamps.
11. Inspect the cooling system hoses and clamped hose connections for leaks and/or excessive deterioration. Service or replace as required.
12. Inspect the radiator core and tanks for leaks. Replace radiator as required.
13. Inspect the cooling system hose routing to verify sufficient clearance to engine compartment components. Reposition hoses (if required).
14. Check the radiator supports and brackets for firm radiator assembly retention. Correct as required. The radiator is installed with rubber isolation mounts.





15. Check the radiator cap.
- Inspect the areas under the vacuum valve and rubber seal for rust or dirt particles.
- Inspect the reservoir filler neck opening for dirt particles on the sealing surface at the bottom of the filler neck opening. Use a clean cloth and wipe the sealing surface to remove any dirt particles.
- Using warm tap water, raise the rubber seal and thoroughly flush away loose rust or trapped dirt particles.
- Inspect and remove any loose or imbedded rust or dirt particles on the sealing surfaces of the rubber seal.