Safety First:
* Coolant is HOT and corrosive: Let the engine cool completely before starting. Touching hot coolant can cause serious burns. Use appropriate safety glasses and gloves.
* Dispose of coolant properly: Used coolant is toxic and should not be poured down the drain. Check with your local waste disposal facility for proper disposal methods. Auto parts stores often accept used coolant for recycling.
Tools and Materials:
* Drain pan: Large enough to hold several gallons of coolant.
* Wrench: Appropriate size for the radiator drain petcock (usually a 1/2" or 9/16" wrench). You might also need a wrench to access the coolant drain plug at the engine block (if doing a full flush).
* New coolant: Use the correct type and amount specified in your owner's manual. Typically, a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water is recommended.
* Funnel: To avoid spills while refilling.
* Hoses: If using a garden hose for flushing, you might need to attach it to a fitting. A shop vacuum hose might also be helpful to help drain the coolant.
* Radiator flush solution (optional): This can help remove more thoroughly built-up deposits. Follow the instructions on the specific product you choose.
* Clean rags or paper towels: To clean up spills.
Procedure:
1. Locate the Radiator Drain Petcock: This is usually located at the bottom of the radiator, on the driver's side.
2. Prepare for Draining: Position the drain pan under the radiator drain petcock.
3. Open the Drain Petcock: Carefully open the drain petcock to allow the coolant to drain into the pan. This can take some time.
4. (Optional) Flush with Water: Once most of the coolant has drained, you can flush the system with clean water. Remove the radiator cap carefully (allowing pressure to escape gently). Use a garden hose (with a fitting if needed) to run water through the radiator from the top. Let the water drain out the petcock. Repeat this several times until the water runs relatively clear. If you're using a radiator flush solution, follow the product instructions at this step.
5. (Optional) Drain from the Engine Block: For a more thorough flush, locate the drain plug on the engine block (often near the bottom of the engine). This will drain coolant from the engine block itself, removing more sediment. Have another drain pan ready for this.
6. Close the Drain Petcocks: Once finished flushing (or if skipping the flushing step), close the drain petcock(s) tightly.
7. Refill the Radiator: Carefully remove the radiator cap and slowly pour the prepared coolant mixture into the radiator using the funnel. Do not overfill. Consult your owner's manual for the correct coolant capacity. It usually shows the correct fill level on the radiator.
8. Bleed the Air: After refilling, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Monitor the coolant level and add more if needed. Watch for air bubbles escaping in the radiator or overflow reservoir. You might need to squeeze the upper radiator hose gently to help release air bubbles. Some cars have a bleed valve to help this process. Check your owner's manual.
9. Check Coolant Level: Once the engine has cooled down, check the coolant level in the radiator and overflow reservoir, and add more if necessary. Ensure the level is within the specified range.
10. Dispose of Used Coolant Properly: Take the used coolant to your local recycling center.
Important Notes:
* Consult your owner's manual: This guide provides general instructions. Your owner's manual will contain specific instructions and recommendations for your 1997 Chrysler Sebring. It's essential to refer to it for accurate procedures and coolant type.
* Pressure Testing (Advanced): If you suspect leaks, consider having a pressure test performed to identify the source before performing a flush.
If you're uncomfortable performing this task yourself, it's always best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. They have the expertise and tools to do the job safely and correctly.
