| Replacing a Radiator Petcock and Lower Radiator Hose |
From "Car Care & Repair"
episode CCR-109 |
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If your temperature gauge is beginning to creep out of its normal range when your vehicle is being stressed (on long trips or when carrying or towing heavy loads, for instance), it may be an indication that there is a problem developing somewhere in your cooling system. Likewise, if you have to top off your antifreeze frequently to keep it at the recommended level, you may have a slow leak in the system. Such factors would suggest that it's a good idea for a thorough check of your cooling system, including the radiator, radiator cap, reservoir, hoses, water pump and heater core. Replacing a Leaky Petcock One fairly common problem is a leaky petcock -- the small valve at the rear and base of the radiator (figure A) that allows the coolant to be drained when it's time for a change. If you've identified a leaky petcock, the repair is fairly easy to do yourself. For the purposes of our demonstration, we removed the radiator from the vehicle before making this repair. In most cases the repair can be made without removing the radiator. Materials: Replacement petcock
Needle-nose pliers - Unscrew and remove the petcock drain-plug (figure B) and inspect it for signs of wear, damaged gasket, damaged threads, etc. Make certain before you begin this procedure that you have a suitable replacement if indeed the petcock is faulty. There are a number of types available (figure C).
- With the drain-plug removed, remove the petcock housing using needle-nose pliers (figure D). Inspect the housing for wear or damage. The replacement petcock should come with both the drain-plug and housing (figure E).
- Install the new plug and housing as a single unit by gently inserting it into the opening and seating it firmly (figure F).
Replacing a Lower Radiator-Hose
Other common sources of leaks include the radiator hoses. In our demonstration, we identified a leak in the lower radiator hose (figure G). For ease of installation and better viewing, our repair was done with the vehicle on a lift. The repair can also be done without a lift. If using an under-car jack and jack-stands, be sure also to chock the front wheels for added safety. Before beginning this repair, drain all of the coolant from the radiator by means of the petcock. - Important: Antifreeze is extremely toxic, and it has a sweet aroma that can attract pets. Drain the old antifreeze and dispose of it properly at the fluids-recycling center of your auto shop. Keep antifreeze away from pets and children.
Materials:
Replacement hose and clamps
Pliers
Screwdriver or nut-driver
Hose lubricant
- Loosen and remove the clamps holding the hose in place at either end of the radiator hose. Depending on what types of clamps are currently installed, this may require a pair of pliers (for the squeeze type) or a screwdriver or nut-driver (for worm-type clamps).
- Carefully work the old hose free. Be careful as there may be some coolant remaining in the system, and it may spill out when you remove the lower hose.
- Prepare the replacement hose for installation. Our replacement hose (figure H) came with an internal spring (figure I) that prevents the hose from collapsing and helps it keep its proper shape. It also came with a protective sheath that shields it from damage. Prepare the inside of the hose-ends with a small amount of lubricant to make the installation easier.
- Place the new hose clamps on the ends of the hose and tighten them down, but not all the way (figure J).
- Install the new hose and tighten down the clamps. The clamps should be tight enough to seal the hose connection, but not so tight that it bites into the rubber, as this will reduce the life-span of the hose.
RESOURCES :
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Trouble-Free Car Care
Author: Dan Ramsey
ISBN: 0028635833
Alpha Books
Auto Repair for Dummies
Author: Deanna Sclar
ISBN: 0764550896
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