Radiator petcock

[DRW1000]

I was trying to change my coolant today. Actually i just wanted to change as much as i can without forced flushing. Does anyone know how to open the petcock on a 99? I was sure that someone had posted a photo (or a link to one) but I could not find it. I went to Rockauto but their photo had wings which are not present on my 99. Their later models did not list the petcock.

I can not see the head but I thought I had it with a 7 mm hex head but I don't know if this is correct. I gave up and I eventually removed the lower rad hose but I only got 4 litres out. (about 1/3).

The head of the petcock actually looks like it can be turned clockwise only with a slot screwdriver.

[Schrade]

Originally Posted by DRW1000

I was trying to change my coolant today. Actually i just wanted to change as much as i can without forced flushing. Does anyone know how to open the petcock on a 99? I was sure that someone had posted a photo (or a link to one) but I could not find it. I went to Rockauto but their photo had wings which are not present on my 99. Their later models did not list the petcock.

I can not see the head but I thought I had it with a 7 mm hex head but I don't know if this is correct. I gave up and I eventually removed the lower rad hose but I only got 4 litres out. (about 1/3).

The head of the petcock actually looks like it can be turned clockwise only with a slot screwdriver.

Mine (2000) looked also like only the slot screwdriver would turn it clockwise, but I found also that a torx drive socket fits right in. Dont remember the size tho'...

It's not more than a half turn, I think...

[DRW1000]

Originally Posted by cbec1999

Mine (2000) looked also like only the slot screwdriver would turn it clockwise, but I found also that a torx drive socket fits right in. Dont remember the size tho'...

It's not more than a half turn, I think...

Thanks.......Ya know I looked at my torx bit set but never seriously considered them for some reason. I hate the hidden ones. I looked for a small mirror for a while as well to try and see the head.

[auto4me]

I use a 1/4 inch square drive to loosen the drain plug. Turn about 1/8 CCW to loosen, to tighten push in then turn 1/8 trun CW.

[DRW1000]

Originally Posted by auto4me

I use a 1/4 inch square drive to loosen the drain plug. Turn about 1/8 CCW to loosen, to tighten push in then turn 1/8 trun CW.

Yes I used a mirror to see the head and I too used a 1/4" drive to turn it. I also made a note in my Haynes so I would remember (or more accurately not need to remember next time)

[xt477]

I have found that I get into way too much trouble messing with that cheap valve. Much easier to pull the radiator hoses loose from the engine side. Then I take a garden hose and flush the radiator.

Just been my experience.