2003 Cavalier Air in Coolant System

Asked by Dempsey Mar 26, 2024 at 06:18 PM about the 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier LS Coupe FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Hey!

I just rebuilt my 2003 Cavalier 2.2, manual (LS
submodel) engine and replaced the clutch.

I am filling the coolant reservoir with coolant, and it
takes it, but the air is not escaping the system. The
passenger side coolant hose is full of coolant, but
the driver side coolant hose is not, and full of air. I
have tried many different methods but I can’t seem
to get the air out if the system.

Help would be greatly appreciated!!

Thank you!!
- Graham

40,075

beatupchevy answered 8 months ago

Is the heater core plugged ?

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157,865

James answered 8 months ago

With the engine cold, remove the coolant recovery tank cap. Remove the upper radiator hose at the engine, thermostat housing, and thermostat. Pour the coolant into the engine through the hole where the thermostat goes. Continue pouring until the engine is full. Now, put the thermostat, thermostat housing, and upper radiator hose back on the engine. Now, fill the plastic coolant recovery tank with coolant up to the full cold line. Start the engine. Top off the recovery tank as needed. Let the engine run until it's up to normal operating temperature. As the engine warms up, keep an eye on the recovery tank. If the coolant level begins to rise, the system is full and you can put the cap on the recovery tank. Once the thermostat opens the coolant level may drop. If that happens, simply top off the recovery tank once more after the engine has cooled off. Hope that helps! Jim

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