I've got a 2009 Altima Coupe. I've never worked with cars before and am tired of feeling ripped off every time I need an oil change or tire rotation. So I'm sorry in advance for stupid questions.
I've been reading up on a coolant flush and it doesn't look too difficult. After I remove the radiator drain plug and let that drain, the service manual mentions an engine block drain plug, but I can't find it. Is removing that necessary?
After I get it drained I was planning on using some distilled water and liquid flush. Then drain that again and put in new antifreeze. Does that sound right?
Thanks
First engine coolant flush. Need help.
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PotatoOfDoom
- Posts: 2
- Joined: Mon Feb 20, 2017 9:51 am
- Car: 2010 Altima SR Coup w/ Every Package. Otherwise bone stock.
Re: First engine coolant flush. Need help.
I'm new to the Altima, just got mine last Saturday, but cars are cars.
I would drain the radiator and measure how much comes out compared to the total capacity. Then fill that back up with distilled water until the engine has pretty much 100% distilled in it, then drain until you can add the right amount of 100% anti freeze (not prediluted). You can read info on what you want your ratio of antifreeze to water to be given your typical temps and whatnot.
I wouldn't bother with the flush crap unless you think the fluid looks really bad.
I like to add redline water wetter to my setup. It lowers temperatures.
I would drain the radiator and measure how much comes out compared to the total capacity. Then fill that back up with distilled water until the engine has pretty much 100% distilled in it, then drain until you can add the right amount of 100% anti freeze (not prediluted). You can read info on what you want your ratio of antifreeze to water to be given your typical temps and whatnot.
I wouldn't bother with the flush crap unless you think the fluid looks really bad.
I like to add redline water wetter to my setup. It lowers temperatures.
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AZhitman
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Re: First engine coolant flush. Need help.
^ Great advice - Awesome first post, potato!
Don't bother with a block drain - radiator holds 80% of the coolant.
Drain the radiator, replace plug, fill with distilled water / antifreeze mixture (up to 50/50). I'm in a hot climate, so I use 1Q of coolant, fill the rest with distilled water and a bottle of WaterWetter, and it's good to go.
Get a new cap while you're at it. Cheap insurance.
Welcome aboard, both of ya!
Don't bother with a block drain - radiator holds 80% of the coolant.
Drain the radiator, replace plug, fill with distilled water / antifreeze mixture (up to 50/50). I'm in a hot climate, so I use 1Q of coolant, fill the rest with distilled water and a bottle of WaterWetter, and it's good to go.
Get a new cap while you're at it. Cheap insurance.
Welcome aboard, both of ya!