Hints & Tips for coolant refill S1 disco v8

[DiscoveringAuz]

Guys, Just had he pleasure of changing my water pump on the 3.8l v8, going to refill the coolant tomorrow,
any hints or tips on hiw to avoid an air blockage etc

[chazza]

I refill through the radiator plug (it is a good idea to replace this with a brass one if you haven't already).

Start the engine with heater on and the water should circulate as the thermostat opens, top up as necessary with the radiator plug still off. When the water expands and starts to overflow, replace the plug and tighten and check that the cross shaped post in the expansion tank is level with the coolant.

Check that the heater is blowing warm air; if not, it may have air in it. I usually find that it will self-clear but if it doesn't, disconnect a heater hose in the engine bay when the engine is idling whilst cold and any air will be pushed out. Check the coolant level each morning for a few days to make sure that it is OK.

Did you Loctite the threads on the water pump bolts? I worked on my 3500 once, which hadn't been done, and three of the bolts had to be drilled out because they had corroded into the housing. :eek:

Cheers Charlie

PS Have you got any tips on replacing the bottom radiator hose? It took my son and I about an hour last time with bost of us struggling; my arms can still feel the pain!

[Boxer]

Also helps to park on an incline with the front up.

[DiscoveringAuz]

Thanks Guys, my driveway is uphill and yes coated all the bolts in loctite, last person to do did as well, problem is he must also have used it on the fan nut!!!!!,
I am yet to refit as i can't seperate from the water pump but I am planing on sticking the impellor shaft in a vice and working from there.

[DiscoveringAuz]

Ps i changed the bottom hose whilst the waterpump and fan are out, also took out the fan shroud which gave a lot more access, with everything installed I can see how he would have had a lot of problems

[loanrangie]

Also helps to park on an incline with the front up.

I always park uphill or at least jack the front up.