| From | Message |
canadak
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/16/2004
00:21:42
|
 Subject: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
New 01 owner,4.7 QC. how do you change coolant.is there a valve to drain it?
|
gizmodog
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/16/2004
06:45:44
|  RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
I just did mine, the valve is really hard to get to. What I did is removed the upper hose from the engine and removed the lower plastic shield at the bottom . I removed the thermostat and installed a garden hose to flush the block. I was amazed at the amount of sand and casting material I got. I also flushed the radiator. I installed a mopar block heater as well and installed a bottle of water wetter. What a difference in performance and heater performance. I highly reconmend doing it this way. It is kinda messy but well worth the results.
|
Lurkin
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/16/2004
08:14:11
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
The radiator drain is on the lower driver's side of the radiator. It is on the side though, not on the back like most. There is also a block drain plug on the driver's side of the engine block.
|
Figols
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/16/2004
09:48:08
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
Lurkin, Is the block drain easy to get at and does it come out easy? My past experience with the block drains is they snap off or strip the threads due to corrosion. Looking at my engine block it looks pretty corroded(I'm not sure why!).
|
FloriDak
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/16/2004
11:55:57
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
I've had pretty good luck with the radiator flush kits you can buy at auto parts stores. My 1997 Dakota even had a splice in the heater core line made just for a backflush kit to hook up a garden hose.
It may not be as good as taking out the block plugs and doing all the components individually, but it's a lot easier and does a pretty good job cleaning the chunks out.
The only tip is if you do it this way, make sure to totally drain the radiator to get the water out after you flush with water. About 1/2 of the coolant system will still be filled with water (inside the block). If you fill the radiator and resivoir with 100% undiluted anti freeze, you should be pretty close to the 50/50 mix. Those anti-freeze testers are a pretty good way to make sure the mix is right and u don't end up with a cracked block in the winter.
1997 Dakota Extended cab
318v8 4x4
Dual Flowmaster Exhaust
K&N Filter
|
.boB
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/16/2004
23:52:40
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
I recently did this job on my '01. Very simple once I figured it out.
Like Lurkin said, the drain is on the drivers side of the tank. It's easily accessable through the hole in the valance panel that looks like it should be for a tow hook. Look through that hole and you'll see a rubber hose in a loop. Pull the top of the loop off blank stud, and aim that in to a bucket.
Next to that you'll see the petcock. It looks differant than what you usually see. It looks more like a tabbed dial. Grab the tab with a pair of pliers, and pull straight out. Then turn counter clock wise about 190* (yes, 190*). It should drain.
Then use whatever flush method you choose.
|
Lurkin
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/17/2004
09:33:27
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
I have not taken the block drain out myself. I learned it was there after I'd done my first coolant flush.
I just drained the rad, put a flush tee on one of the heater hoses, flushed awhile, moved the tee to the other heater hose (wasn't sure which one was the input line), and flushed a bit more.
Then refilled, don't forget to loosen the air bleed on the upper hose fitting.
I found out about the block drain from the Service Manual that I bought afterwards.
|
caulk04
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/17/2004
14:31:21
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
Where does the mopar block heater install?
I would REALLY like to install a block heater, but don't particularly want to pull a freze plug or anything that is overly difficult.
Stinkin' cold weather, not even thanksgiving and already low 20's.
|
gizmodog
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/18/2004
06:29:53
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
caulk,
The block heater goes on the right side of the engine at the rear freeze plug hole. It is very easy. Just take a small long punch and lightly tap the top lip of the plug. The plug will then move in at the top and come out at the bottom. When you can get a pair of pliers on it and just pull it out. Clean the hole in the block and install the heater just like the directions say. It took me about 10 minutes.
Also once you have the plug out, pull the upper hose and back flush your block, I found a bunch of sand and casting slag in mine, and man does it run cooler and the heater is hot as hell.
|
caulk04
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/19/2004
13:07:58
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
Hmm...I think I'm gonna have to pick up a block heater then.
Mine runs cool and the heater is VERY fuctional, but I think I'll do that anyway.
What type of coolant is factory? It looks orange like dexGEL but I thought that was GM only. If that is it, I don't want to mix something else with it as I've read horror stories of people mixing 'green' with dexGEL and blocking coolant passages solid.
Thanks!!!
|
furball
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/19/2004
18:11:56
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
It`s Zerex G-05 dyed orange. Good stuff, get it at Autozone.
|
AmsoilSponsor
DakotaEnthusiast
11/20/2004
06:44:12
|  Amsoil Propylene Glycol Antifreeze & Coolant
IP: Logged
Message:
As far as I am concerned, the best coolant is propylene glycol mixed with water. It has many of the same advantages as ethylene glycol mixed with water without the toxicity.
For instance,
Amsoil Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant combines the benefits of biodegradability, low toxicity and all-climate protection. It is safer for kids and pets than ethylene glycol coolants, which are sweet tasting and extremely toxic. It offers improved protection against liner pitting, and offers resistance to corrosion of aluminum, iron surfaces and solder points.
__________________________________________________
A 50/50 mix will usually protect the coolant sufficiently from freezing. In extremely low temperatures, 60/40 is advisable (depending on the manufacturer). If more than 60% coolant concentrate is added, the boiling point will be lowered, which is of course undesired.
The corrosion inhibitors in are also extremely important.
You should buy a coolant tester. You can get it at any automotive supply shop for a few dollars. You extract a little coolant out with the device, and it will tell you if the mix is correct.
__________________________________________________
You can Request a FREE Amsoil Catalog by clicking below.
Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com
AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products
|
a thought
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/21/2004
08:40:08
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
Mix your coolant in a ratio that cover the temps in the area where you live. example if you are in Phoenix you do not need a mix to cover you to -35.
The more water that you can safely run the more effiecient your cooling system will be. Distilled water is the best choice, it does not have the minerals in it that can end up turning to crusty deposits in your cooling system. Water Wetter is a great choice to add when refilling. A refractometer is a tool that very accuratly gives you the exact mix and the temp that it covers to.
|
JerryM
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/25/2004
12:05:04
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
Hey Guys,
I've got 42K on my 2000 4.7 liter and have done nothing to the cooling system yet. Does anyone know at what mileage the manufacturer recomends changing and flushing coolant?
Thanks
|
pooh
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
11/26/2004
22:53:46
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
To: a thought,
U R WRONG. Anti-freeze is also non-overheat, so a 50/50 protects you in the cold and the heat.
|
AmsoilSponsor
DakotaEnthusiast
11/27/2004
07:55:26
|  Redline Water Wetter - Coolant Change - Amsoil
IP: Logged
Message:
Also responding to "a thought", regarding Water Wetter.
Redline Water Wetter is primarily for "water only" systems --- NOT for use with the 50/50 coolant/water mix most engines run.
You have probably seen it used in Race Cars.
Using it in a Race Car won't be a problem as they will most likely drain and re-fill the cooling system after each race. Water Wetter is also a "requirement" vs. coolant at races, since spilled coolant is like oil on the track --- whereas water will just evaporate.
I am not certain that it adds any benefits to a 50/50 mix in your Dakota.
IMHO ---- Save your $$$.
__________________________________________________
You can Request a FREE Amsoil Catalog by clicking below.
Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com
AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products
|
AmsoilSponsor
DakotaEnthusiast
12/27/2004
20:41:39
| coolant change = Amsoil Antifreeze and Coolant
IP: Logged
Message:
Winter Preparation = Amsoil Protection !!!
**** AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant ****
AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant is formulated to provide benefits far beyond those found in today's conventional antifreeze and coolant products. This revolutionary formulation provides maximum antifreeze and cooling protection in the most extreme temperatures and operating conditions. And unlike conventional ethylene glycol based products, which are highly toxic and even fatal, AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant is formulated with propylene glycol. It is biodegradable and requires no special disposal costs or procedures in most areas. Above all, its low toxicity presents no threat to children, pets or wildlife.
__________  __________
AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant provides even greater benefits:
Lasts Longer
AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant contains a proprietary poly organic acid technology. It eliminates the need for periodic changing or recharging of cooling systems. There is no need for supplemental coolant additives. AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant provides extended service life in all gasoline and diesel vehicles. It can be used for seven years or 250,000 miles in passenger cars, light-duty trucks, vans and recreational vehicles. It lasts seven years or 750,000 miles in over-the-road diesel trucks.
Compatible With Other Fluids
AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant is dyed neutral yellow and is compatible with all ethylene and propylene antifreeze and coolant formulations on the market, including DEX-Cool®, Sierra®, and Zerex®. It is also compatible with fully formulated diesel antifreezes and other organic acid technology (OAT) and hybrid organic acid technology (HOAT) formulations.
Stops Leaks
AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant adheres to metal. It self-seals hairline cracks in welds and seams to prevent leaks, without additional stop-leak products or fibrous materials.
Prevents Metallic Corrosion
Independent tests reveal AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant surpassed standards for metallic corrosion. It plates to metal to protect even when exposed to acids and salt spray. Standard allowances for loss in aluminum and solder are less than 60 mg. AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant lost 0 mg in aluminum and less than 6 mg in solder.
Standard for iron, steel, copper and brass allow a maximum loss of less than 20 mg. AMSOIL Antifreeze and Engine Coolant never exceeded 3 mg loss in any of those metals in a testing period that was run for 10 weeks, three weeks longer than required tests.
__________________________________________________
You can Request a FREE Amsoil catalog by clicking below.
Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com
AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products
|
JerryT
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
4/18/2009
21:59:09
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
I have a 2003 Dakota 4X4 w/ 4.7 l engine. trying to change the coolant and can't locate the tap for draining the block. Looked on both sides from u/neath. Any suggestions on how to make sure the block gets drained?????
|
DakDoc
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
4/20/2009
20:16:17
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
It's a plug. Looks like a bolt head.
|
Fukk U
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
4/20/2009
22:25:35
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
Fukk U amsoiled
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
|
Fukk U
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
4/20/2009
22:27:40
| RE: coolant change
IP: Logged
Message:
Fukk U amsoiled
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Fukk U amsoiled
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Fukk U amsoiled
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Fukk U amsoiled
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
|
| | P 1 Next Page>> |
