Draining coolant (where are other 5 litres)

[philippo]

Hello

Currently doing annual service and for first time am changing coolant so sorry if this is a stupid question, but draining the cooling system according to the bible I've only got 7 litres out, where are the other 5?

I drained by removing bottom hose and allowed air into the system by removing hose to swirlpot. Pretty sure that system was full since I had no overheating problems.

Also whilst I'm on what is best way of removing cap from swirlpot? Mine seems to be on rather tight and so far I've only succeeded in bending metal bars (albeit not very strong ones).

Cheers

Philip

[Paul V]

Water will be in the heater system and other parts of the cooling system.

[spend]

The engine also holds quite a lot in the hidden nooks & crannys. Give it a good flushing to remove all the old stuff.

Dave

[octanebooster]

The rest of it is in the engine block. Strangely, the bible completely ignores this point. There is a drain plug on the side of the block, quite low down. I can't remember which side, it may even be both sides.

[V8 GRF]

philippo said:

Also whilst I'm on what is best way of removing cap from swirlpot? Mine seems to be on rather tight and so far I've only succeeded in bending metal bars (albeit not very strong ones).

Cheers

Philip

The best way is to use a big flat bladed screwdriver on it's edge. If you can't get enough on it, then slip a piece of tubing over it to add leverage. Do be careful though 'cos when the cap finally gives it's easy for the screwdriver to go flying and damage paintwork or engine ancilliaries.

[simon.b]

You do need to be vary careful removing the brass plug. As the swirl tanks get older the seam around the centre can split if you put to much force on the plug.

Using a heat gun get the top of tank hot and preferably do this before you drain the system so you don’t over cook it.

Replace the plug and nip up when cold, do not be tempted to remove again and top up from here on a hot engine, which you shouldn’t be doing any way.

Cheers,

Simon.

[jeffsy]

Steve Heath does a replacement cap which is an Allen key type which is marginally easier to undo. Also comes wth a natty choice of colours to suit your car...

[jonathant]

jeffsy said:

Steve Heath does a replacement cap which is an Allen key type which is marginally easier to undo.

I have to say that I find it infinitely easier to undo - probably because I'm using a real tool (allen key) rather than some breakers bar / screwdriver thing!

[Philippo]

Thanks for the tips. I should have remembered the drains on the block from my V8 Rover. Will finish job in the morning.

Cheers

Philip