Flushing Radiator

[KatiePotatie]

I am after some tips really, I know how to do it, but various technicalities are getting in the way...

I have had the heater out of Martha today, as it has never worked, so I thought I would clean it up & re fit it, then flush the radiator & see if that helps any.

So, to flush the radiator, first remove the drain plug. No can do. It appears to be badly corroded & the top of the screw is rounding when I try to undo it.

So I tried undoing the pipe at the bottom of the radiator, but it is stuck fast! Anyone have any tips on how to get the pipe off?! Obviously I have undone the clip holding it in place, as well as stood on the bumper & tried brute force but the pipe is just...STUCK!

I also spent 3 hours trying to undo a badly corroded bolt from the back exhaust strap today, which was fun...NOT!

[bmcecosse]

As you have discovered - don't touch the drain tap or you will be looking for another radiator. Just pop the bottom hose off the water pump if it's stuck fast to the bottom connection on the rad. You could take the rad out - only held by 4 bolts - 2 each side - and that may let you get at the bottom hose more easily. If you are willing to destroy it - heat may help.

[Dean]

try boiling water on the hose where it joins, see if it slips off. Be careful it will be hot.

[KatiePotatie]

I will try to take the hose off from the water pump, I hope it's not stuck as fast as the other end :/

Things would be too simple if she wasn't old...

[KatiePotatie]

try boiling water on the hose where it joins, see if it slips off. Be careful it will be hot.

Ooooo this sounds like a good idea! Will try this then the other end

[beero]

You can try forcing a blunt screwdriver under the edge of the rubber but be prepared by having a replacement hose handy in case you destroy the old one. Not an easy job, you need brute force and ignorance I'm afraid.

[mike.perry]

A blunt screw driver and washing up liquid squirted in the gap whilst still soft from the boiling water, otherwise a junior hacksaw and a new hose.
Disconnect the heater hoses from the engine and attach a garden hose to one end then turn the tap on gently. Check for leaks inside the car and check that the heater tap is working