Radiator Flush

[countrygirl75]

okay...it will be obvious that i am a 1st time user here....im not really mechanically inclined but would LUV to get to know my girl better!

 

i have looked over numerous postings and cant seem to find the basics i need.

 

i have a '95 sierra 1500 4x4 w about 214k miles, having issues with overheating (not really - just crazy thermostat that wants me to think it is overheating). i would like to start by flushing out the radiator and then, if needed, replacing the thremostat....how do i flush her out properly? where do i find the thermostat in order to replace it if needed?

 

thanx for ANY help that can be offered!

[wavery]

With that mileage, I would suggest pulling the radiator and have it professionally cleaned at a radiator shop.

 

While the radiator is out, you should pull out the thermostat and put the thermostat housing back on (with no thermostat). Be sure that you turn your cab heater all the way to hot before shutting down the engine.

 

Put your garden hose in the upper radiator hose, stuff a rag around it for a tight seal and turn the hose on full blast. You'll see a lot of crap come poring out of the lower radiator hose. Remove the heater hose and do the same. Now, let all the water drain out and plug the lower hose with a round wood plug and clamp it.

 

Buy a good quality radiator flush. Mix it with about a gallon or 2 of hot water (measure how much it will hold by pouring a measured amount of water down 1st and draining it out) and pour it down the upper hose slowly until you can't pour anymore in. Let it sit for the recommended time on the can, then flush it out. Some of the better flushes have a neutralizer that you pour in the same way, let it sit, then flush it out. Don't forget to do the same to the heater core.

 

When I did this to my truck, I hooked the garden hose up to my hot-water heater.

 

Before you get your radiator back, install a 195* AC/Delco thermostat and a new gasket. Don't let anyone talk you into installing a lower temp thermostat. That's a good way to shorten the life of your engine. Your normal running temp should be 195*. Running any colder will mess up all of your sensor readings, your truck will not perform properly and the engine parts will not expand to the proper fit.

 

This would also be a good time to install all new belts, hoses & clamps. Clean up the old belts & hoses and save them in the truck somewhere for emergency spares.