Safety First
Allow the engine to completely cool down before you begin.
Tools and materials.
3 litres of longlife antifreeze (usually red in colour)
Selection of flat bladed screwdrivers, 13 mm spanner, basin and jug.
If you choose to remove the end of the bottom radiator hose, and it's the crimped type, you will also need a new jubilee clip.
Allow the engine to completely cool down before you begin.
Tools and materials.
3 litres of longlife antifreeze (usually red in colour)
Selection of flat bladed screwdrivers, 13 mm spanner, basin and jug.
If you choose to remove the end of the bottom radiator hose, and it's the crimped type, you will also need a new jubilee clip.
Draining Down
Remove the coolant bottle cap. (engine must be cold)
You can drain down by attaching a small hose to the stub on the drain point. this at the bottom right hand side of the radiator, looking forward. It's a 13 mm hex with a cross cut out of it. It's quit hard to reach. I just took the bottom radiator hose off of the radiator. This is at the the bottom right. I had to burst the hose clip with the screwdrivers as it was the original crimped type.
If you have problems getting the clip off, or getting to the drain point, you might need to remove the undertray.
The picture shows the new shiny one fitted.
Whatever way you drain it try to catch the coolant in a basin. When it starts to flow you can open the bleed screw on the top right hand side of the radiator. See photo.
Filling
When all the coolant is out, refit the bottom hose with a new clip or tighten the draincock. Mix some coolant and water in the jug, usually 50:50. Start pouring it into the expansion bottle. Keep an eye on the bleed screw. When water comes out of it close it. Keep filling it till the level is between the two marks. Try squeezing the hoses to get more air out. Now let the engine idle for 5 mins. Top up the expansion bottle if need be. Now close the bonnet to keep heat in, and let the engine run at a fast tickover until it is thoroughly warmed up. Now let it cool. When it is stone cold, top up the expansion bottle, and put the lid back on it. Job done.
Closing Comments
If you were being really thorough, you could drain as I did then fill with water then drain again, before refilling. I didn't as I change the coolant every 3 to 4 years and the longlife stuff is good for 5, so its not an issue if a little of the old stuff is left.
It's a good idea to keep an eye on the level in the coolant bottle for a few days after the job in case it drops due to air escaping or if you have a leak.
If you have to top up, make sure the engine is cold before removing the cap from the expansion bottle.
