Coolant Purge Valve - How does it work?

[sullivas]

Can anyone explain how the bleeder/purge valve located at the coolant reservoir works and how it should be used? I just did a coolant flush/fill and could use some detail on that valve and getting all air out of the system without an AirLift.

Thanks

[Loren]

Sorry, but if you did a complete flush and then you will really need a vacuum filling system (like AirLift).

The bleed valve can really only handle small changes where little or no air is trapped in the engine.

[sullivas]

It was the '2 gallons out 2 gallons water in' method through the rear drain valve.

Not the hose disconnection complete flush.

[logray]

I just posted a day or two ago on this... and there are many posts about it as well.

Here it is:

[sullivas]

Thanks Logray.

[sullivas]

Drained 2 gallons from the rear plug.

I opened the air bleed valve (cold engine), topped off the coolant and drove for 1/2 hour

as various rpm's heater on, with bleeder open.

Upon returning the coolant was a little lower, no danger zone.

However the bleed valve was open on its own. I pushed down on it but it raised back up

and it didn't return to its normal position until the engine had cooled down.

Anyone know if this is normal?

[Loren]

Yes, that is normal.

That valve is meant to "let air out" even from temperature changes.

You will still likely need to top daily for a few days once more air bleeds out.

[sullivas]

Ok great, thanks Loren. Picking up one more gallon at the dealer tonight.

[Loren]

Ok great, thanks Loren. Picking up one more gallon at the dealer tonight.

If you are mixing 50-50 with water then a couple of quarts is likely enough.