Bleeding cooling system?

I have a '97 Venture.I think the intake gasket is bad. Water in the oil.I have read the discusion on this subject.I feel better about doing this but one of the problems that i think i'll have is not knowing how to bleed the cooling system.How is this done and also does anyone know why you need a 10 mm crowsfoot socket(what ever it is).Thanks for any and all help.Ken N.

I have a '97 Venture.I think the intake gasket is bad. Water in the oil.I have read the discusion on this subject.I feel better about doing this but one of the problems that i think i'll have is not knowing how to bleed the cooling system.How is this done and also does anyone know why you need a 10 mm crowsfoot socket(what ever it is).Thanks for any and all help.Ken N.

Don't let bleeding the cooling system stop you. Even after bleeding you will still have air to work out over a few days.

You will need the crowsfoot or a 10mm ratcheting wrench (what I used) to get to 1 (or 2) bolt near the power steering pump as you just cannot get a socket on it.

Cressidaadr, Thanks for your reply.I have worked on cars for 35-40 years but they were rear wheel drive and carborated.But I don't know how to bleed the system other than loosing a heater hose. I read in the impala section to use a Dorm gasket set.It incudes new intake bolts.And I read post from back in 2005 wher the intake gasket set was $150 and it probable was the old gasket.at Advance Auto$65 I like to buy there the LADY that runs it is very knowlegefuland has done this for 20+ years..Thanks again Ken N.

when you bleed the system just loosen the small center brass bolt just enough for the air to come out until you see coolant come out. there are two bleeders one above the water pump ,one on the t-stat housing. don't tighten too tight as these will strip out.you will have to bleed it once you get it back together then drive it a day or so then bleed it again.