Coolant- Opposite to usual problem

[mikeonb4c]

Thanks Dave and that's v useful to know. I'm very tempted as, if the coolant that is in it still looks nice and clear when changeover time comes (and I think mine will do - it seems to have a crud free system), it could be argued that full draining is not essential, just replacement of tired anti-freeze with fresh.

[Eat Aunt]

Very many thanks folks.

Worked a treat and very easy to do (with 2 of you)

Would suggest in addition, the owner of the Bongo takes responsibility for the breather pipe end, you are the one controlling the mission lol

Easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy , as they say.



Also thanks for the tip on protecting the breather hose where it runs close to the alternator, with a length of slit garden hose placed over the breather hose. Very neat.

[bigdaddycain]

I would love there to be a simple, angst free way of doing the job (though its debatable how relaxing it might end up being (not) with the need for my assistant to get it right at header tank end etc. so level didn't drop too low.

Good communication between the filler and the person on the bleed pipe is essential, but as long as the person filling the expansion tank keeps it brim full all the time,(OR AT LEAST NOT LETTING IT DROP BELOW THE LOW WATER MARK) then no air is introduced.(as long as no air is in the system in the first place)
When me and BDC have done this, i always tell him im running low on coolant filling the tank ,and then he stops the bleed till i refill.
There is quite a bit of leeway between brim full ,and the low marker on the expansion tank.
Its not the Mazda way but it works. MR MUNKEY,KAWASAKI KID, BDC AND ME can vouch for this method.
As for the stat i can understand Haydns concern, but as long as you give it a good run and a bit of hard driving after you have put the coolant in, it will open the stat and then mix the coolant ,i suppose just pottering about and not forcing the engine may not open the stat as quickly. so dont potter about, give it a bit of welly.

Great post dave, you put it much better than i could have...

Regarding the "speedy stat opening regime" Running around at 35MPH with the gearbox locked in 2nd promotes a nice warm engine... (de-cokes it nicely too)

[bigdaddycain]

Very many thanks folks.

Worked a treat and very easy to do (with 2 of you)

Would suggest in addition, the owner of the Bongo takes responsibility for the breather pipe end, you are the one controlling the mission lol

Easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy , as they say.



Also thanks for the tip on protecting the breather hose where it runs close to the alternator, with a length of slit garden hose placed over the breather hose. Very neat.

Excellent news!

[Eat Aunt]

Many Thanks BDC and everyone for the great advice and tips

Using this method is.... dare I say it...... a fool proof way of avoiding entraining air into the system....