Draining and re-filling coolant questions

[LaserTam]

I'm no mechanic, but suspect this is something I could do myself. So a few (perhaps daft) questions.

I have had a small water leak on the Tamora for a while, only requiring a small top up occasionally. But concerned that over time the concentration of anti-freeze will have reduced. So, with winter rapidly approaching, thinking its time to flush it out and refill.

Where should I drain from? Bottom hose from the rad was my guess.
When refilling, whats the process to avoid air blocks? Heard of people running the engine whilst filling.
What is the capacity of the system? And what mix of anti-freeze/water should I be using?
And what antifreeze? Are there recommended brands I should be sourcing?

Any other top tips?

Thanks in advance.

[m4tti]

I'd locate the leak before you flush it. If the car is garaged your unlikely to even get close to the freezing point of even diluted anti freeze.

Make sure your not topping up with tap water as you will end up causing scale in the water ways in an alloy head.

[LaserTam]

I know where it is, but really doesn't justify the spend on a new rad. Really is a small leak.

Car is garaged, but I do use it through the winter and it could be outside when the temps drop, hence my concern, which is why I would like to flush it.

So, any thoughts on my questions?
Thanks.

[whitewolf]

If your not going to be using it then either just leave it or if your really concerned about the diluted antifreeze mixture, take the bottom hose off, empty coolant and leave it empty/dry.

No water at all can't freeze.

[awhite2199]

I have the same problem as you with a small leak but I intend to get the rad recored (cheaper than new alloy rad). Problem is with a leak the system will never fully pressurise which means the boiling point of the water will be much lower and there is chance the water will boil if it gets hot enough and blow out everywhere.

Andy

[LaserTam]

Thanks for the replies guys, but its not exactly answered my questions. Anyone else?

[LaserTam]

Shameless bump - I know its not the most exciting subject, but surely someone can give me some advice? Last try, I will let it fade into the PH mist if no one replies.

[Getsis]

I have never done it but was told if I did to raise the front end up before filling.