Engine Cooling System: Maintenance Pontiac Sunfire I

Draining Procedure

Note. If the procedure below is not followed a low or high coolant level condition and/or vehicle damage could result.

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Remove the surge tank cap.
3. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
4. Place a drain pan under the drain cock.
5. Open the radiator drain cock.
6. Drain the cooling system.
7. Inspect the engine coolant for the following: Discolored - follow the flush procedure. Refer to «Flushing»(ref-174538-S17006907322005040600000) . Normal in appearance - follow the filling procedure. If a complete block drain is required, remove the water pump drain plug.

Flushing

Important: Do not use a chemical flush.

Store used coolant in the proper manner, such as in a used engine coolant holding tank. Do not pour used coolant down a drain. Ethylene glycol antifreeze is a very toxic chemical. Do not dispose of coolant into the sewer system or ground water. This is illegal and ecologically unsound.

Various methods and equipment can be used to flush the cooling system. If special equipment is used, such as a back flusher, follow the manufacturer's instruction. However, always remove the thermostat before back flushing the system.

1. Block the drive wheels.
2. Place the transmission in park (P) or neutral (N).
3. Engage the park brake.
4. Run the engine until the thermostat opens.
5. Stop the engine.
6. Follow the drain and fill procedure using only clean drinkable water. Repeat the procedure if necessary, until the fluid is nearly colorless. Refer to «Draining and Filling Cooling System (L61)»(ref-174538-S29519294792005040600000) .
7. Fill the coolant reservoir to the FULL HOT mark.
8. Fill the cooling system. Refer to «Draining and Filling Cooling System (L61)»(ref-174538-S29519294792005040600000) .