Lots of general queries

[poplars]

Taking a weeks holiday and have included a picture of my holiday reading!!

Before you tell me all the info will be in these lovely books I did want to throw some questions to those of you who will have undoubtedly done all this before.

Thinking of flushing the radiator. A sensible thing to do right?? Essentially is it just a case f flicking the tap thing at the bottom and running a hose through it?? When filling do I need to take any precautions? Assume rainwater is best.. and how much antifreeze would be used if Ive flushed the whole thing?

Next question is nipples and grease. I have a grease gun.. is there a diagram of where I should be using it? I think its sensible for me to have a go at all this.

Then there isn't there a nipple under the toe board for the steering? Now am I right in thinking you need an oil gun for that?? OK so I need a grease gun AND an oil gun?

Any other simple checks I can do to keep the car in running condition for now?

Having had its mock MOT which it passed fine Im going to have a poke around underneath - use a wore brush on any cosmetic rust and then use some clear wax oil as winter approaches.

All sounds sensible?? Grateful for tips on all of this..

I will then be taking all the seats out. Is it worth painting the floor of the car inside with something like Hammerite? Assume it can't hurt??

Thanks in advance.[frame][/frame]

[simmitc]

?The radiator drain tap is fine for draining, but you need to remove the bottom hose to flush - I find that one of those Hoselock twist action adjustable spray units will give a reasonable seal. Remove both top and bottom hoses, flush radiator in both directions. You can also stick the hoselock unit into the bottom hose to flush the engine - make sure that the heater tap is fully on. It's worth disconnection the heater pipes and flushing that in both directions too. There is a drain tap or plug at the rear of the engine (exhaust side). Remove and check that there is no crud.

When filling, the amount of antifreeze depends on the product - dilute in whatever proportion is recommended, usually 33% - 50% for the UK. Tap water is fine. Total capacity about one gallon (8.25 pints in most books).

Grease, look in the books, but top and bottom of swivel pins, track rod ends, hand brake cables. The one under the toe board is the steering rack. Book says EP90 - easiest to remove the nipple, use an oil can to inject the oil, and then replace the nipple. Others say that grease is either OK or better. Do work the rack back and forth to distribute your chosen lubricant.

[poplars]

Thanks.... Will have to go and examine where all,the bits you mention are found on the car.....good advice though. Thanks.

[bmcecosse]

DO NOT touch the radiator drain c0ck - it may very well shear off! Just take the bottom hose off for flushing purposes...