Radiator flush

Q: Greg, what is the proper procedure to flush and refill my radiator? I want to avoid problems from rust in the cooling system. How often should I flush and refill my radiator? — Aaron, Shamokin, Pa.

A: Aaron, if you flush and refill every two or three years, you’ll protect your car from problems with old anti-freeze. Here’s what to do, courtesy of the Car Care Council:

1. Begin with the engine cold and ignition off. Remove the radiator pressure cap.

2. Open the petcock at the bottom of the radiator and drain the coolant into a bucket.

3. Close the petcock and fill the radiator with water.

4. Start the engine and turn the heater control to hot. Add cooling system cleaner and idle the engine for 30 minutes (or as per the instructions on container).

5. Stop the engine and allow it to cool for five minutes. Drain the system.

6. Close the petcock, fill the radiator with water and let the engine idle for five minutes.

7. Repeat step No. 5. Close the petcock.

8. Install new 50/50 mixture of water and ethylene glycol antifreeze/coolant.