99 Sebring Convertible 2.5L Coolant Problem

[appalachian]

I drained the coolant as per the service manual for the purpose of flushing and changing. The service manual says all that is required is to remove the radiator plug. However, I only get 1 gallon out. The specifications say the capacity is 10.5 quarts, so I assume there is still a gallon and a half in the block and heater core. Is draining at other locations required to remove all coolant? If so, where? ....and why wouldn't the service manual specify? If someone wasn't paying attention to the quantity that came out after running water only for flushing, and added a 50/50 mix, the mixture overall would be less than 25% antifreeze. What am I overlooking?

John

[Cat Fuzz]

For one thing, I ALWAYS mix the antifreeze before putting it in. I save an empty antifreeze jug. Pour half in from a new jug and then fill both with water. That way, no matter what you do, you're adding 50/50 to your system.

To get the rest of the antifreeze out, you'll need to locate the drain plugs in the block. Probably one on both sides behind the exhaust manifold. They will probably be hard to get to.

[appalachian]

I usually pre-mix as well, but if someone flushed everything out with 100% water, and didn't realize that half was still in the engine, the total system would be only 25% antifreeze after adding the 50/50 mix.

Per the service manual, Chrysler put thermostats with a small hole in them in the 2.5L, theoretically so that all coolant will drain to the radiator and out the one drain plug. It's not working out that way though, so I posted to see if any Chrysler techs might know why. If none reply, I'm going to pull out the thermostat tomorrow and work from there.

Originally Posted by Cat Fuzz

For one thing, I ALWAYS mix the antifreeze before putting it in. I save an empty antifreeze jug. Pour half in from a new jug and then fill both with water. That way, no matter what you do, you're adding 50/50 to your system.

To get the rest of the antifreeze out, you'll need to locate the drain plugs in the block. Probably one on both sides behind the exhaust manifold. They will probably be hard to get to.