Radiator Problem

Ok, first off, I have a 1995 Firebird 3.4L V6. Today I was doing a routine checkup on all my fluids making sure that they were all still looking good. And I came across a short rubber black tube hanging from the top of my radiator. I assumed that it was supposed to go to somewhere, since it would only make sense for it to. I ended up finding another short tube hanging just below my battery. I removed my battery, and looked at my coolant reservoir. Now, I'm still learning the ropes to these cars.. but it looked like the tube was supposed to go from the reservoir up to the top of the radiator. It was as if the rubber tube was cut, because there were no signs of wear. I really have no idea how long it's been like this, so my first instinct was to fix it as quickly as possibly. So i went to NAPA, got a new rubber hose to replace the old one. I then drove around for a little bit to see if maybe I could get the liquid flowing through again. I drove for about 15 miles. Pulled over at a gas station, unplugged the hose to see if there was any of the coolant going through, and it was still all dry inside. Now, my questions.. Did I properly fix the problem? Why would there not be any coolant flowing through if I did? And in what ways would my engine and radiator been affected if there had been a lack of coolant going through, such as any damages that migh have occured? Another thing, the reason why I didn't notice the problem earlier, is because my cars runs a constant 185 degrees, unless stopped at a light, then it goes up. I've been told that this is normal for my car, so I never suspected a problem. Thanks in advance for any help received.

Just saw this picture in one of Formula's posts, so I though I would use it as well.

The tube I'm referring to is the one under the word "Engine."

http://shbox.com/1/low_coolant.jpg

If the vehicle wasn't overheating you didn't damage anything but just connect it again to the reservoir tank and make sure you fill it up and get all the air pressure if any out of there. Good Luck.

John

Alright, but how would i go by getting the air pressure out? Is there any special technique that I have to do, or just simply let it do it on its own?

Fill it up til no more air bubbles pop up, then squeeze the upper radiator hose and fil slowly. this will draw more coolant in. The start the car with the cap off while quickly adding coolant then once it starts to over flow quickly put the cap back on and fill the reservoir. That method has always worked for me on cars that don't have bleeder screws. Good Luck.

John

Alright, thanks. I appreciate your help.

No problem, glad to help.

John