Coolant will not release air bubbles

MobileInsight · 02-15-2013, 06:12 PM

I just completed a full drain and refill of the coolant in my Insight, radiator and the dreaded block drain. I topped everything off per the service manual, completed the air weep while filling, closed the weep hole off, then topped up the radiator. I then proceeded to do the water outlet vent with the 8mm hose, funnel, and coolant. However, when I removed the rubber cap, I noticed that the valve was completely caked in black mud. I had to carefully remove the gunk and pierce a hole through it; once I did, I found that the gunk was only surface and not actually filled inside the stem of the valve. But once I started the procedure and let the engine run for about 15 minutes, the block never released any bubbles whatsoever. It didn't even raise or lower the coolant level in the hose. After trying to rev up the engine and check the valve again for a clog, I gave up. The engine managed to fully warm up and never overheated, but I still don't like this at all. Any ideas?

**jeff652** · 02-15-2013, 07:08 PM

Use a drill bit (in you hand with your fingers only) to 'drill' out the gunk so that the coolant can properly bleed.

Willie Williford · 02-15-2013, 07:17 PM

When "burping" the coolant system, make sure that the heater in on, climate control/temp. set to max, and the fan on high.
Bubbles will get trapped in the heater core. Been there done that.

When burping, the radiator cap should be on and tight.
You are not gaining any coolant in the overflow bottle because the coolant isn't hot enough.
It won't suck any coolant from the overflow bottle back into the engine until the engine cools off.

HTh
Willie

MobileInsight · 02-16-2013, 07:26 PM

No luck. I followed all the procedures and tried hand-drilling out the valve. I did find another clog just before the first bend and managed to break it free, but there is still nothing coming out.

Willie Williford · 02-16-2013, 08:40 PM

Time to put your location in your profile for a physical assistance.

Willie

**jeff652** · 02-17-2013, 12:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MobileInsight

No luck. I followed all the procedures and tried hand-drilling out the valve. I did find another clog just before the first bend and managed to break it free, but there is still nothing coming out.

Is coolant spilling out of the cyl head vent? It should be flowing out easily as you fill the system in the radiator. If not, it is clogged deeper in there and you need to clean it out.

MobileInsight · 02-17-2013, 06:05 PM

Indeed, it was clogged further. After running a little flexible wire down through the valve a few times, I then tried once more to burp the system, and voila -- instant fluid and bubbles. I ran the engine with heat on for about ten minutes until the bubbles stopped, including revving it a little a couple of times. I just drove to and from home, which is about a 300 mile round trip, with no overheating or hiccups. Should be good now. Thanks to everyone for your assistance.

**jeff652** · 02-18-2013, 02:33 AM

Awesome. Glad to hear!!