Cooling System Servicing: Maintenance: Flushing

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 16 other vehicles, including the 1984 Plymouth Turismo, 1984 Plymouth Reliant, 1984 Plymouth Horizon, 1984 Plymouth Gran Fury, and 1984 Dodge Rampage. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Some manufacturers use an aluminum/plastic radiator on some models (identified by a note below the filler neck). Material used for cleaning and flushing must be compatible with aluminum, according to manufacturer's recommendations.

Back flushing is a very effective means of removing rust and scale from a cooling system. For best results, the radiator, engine and heater core should be flushed separately.
To flush radiator, connect flushing gun to water outlet of radiator and disconnect water inlet hose. Use a leadaway hose, connected to radiator inlet, to prevent flooding the engine. Use air in short bursts only as a clogged radiator could be easily damaged. Continue flushing until water runs clear.
To flush engine, first remove thermostat and replace housing. Connect flushing gun to water outlet of engine. Disconnect heater hoses from engine. Flush using short air bursts until water runs clean. Flush heater core as described for radiator. Make sure heater valve is set to maximum heat position before flushing heater.