Once you’ve flushed the cooling system, shut off the engine and
fill the radiator with fresh antifreeze. To prevent spills, use a cap
with provision for a funnel.
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A 50/50 mix of the antifreeze and distilled water (minimizes
buildup of minerals and solids) is generally the recommended
ratio for just about all climates. An ’86-’93 5.0-liter V-8 holds
a total of 14.1 quarts in the cooling system, so you’ll need to
measure 7.05 quarts each for water and antifreeze. Alternatively,
you can use ready-mixed 50/50 coolant, like this from NAPA.
Always use an antifreeze that’s designed to meet the original OE
vehicle standard.
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Start the car. Run the engine for 20 minutes or until it reaches
operating temperature and the thermostat is fully open. Turn on
the heater to allow the antifreeze to circulate through the entire
cooling system, including the heater core.
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Using an air tube, install one end into the funnel at the top of the radiator and the other into a catch
can or drum beneath the car. As the engine warms up, the coolant will start to flow out of the top
of the radiator and through the tube, indicating that it’s circulating through the system. Keep doing
this until no more air bubbles are visible. Once the bubbles are gone, you can shut off the engine.
When the engine is cold, top up the radiator to the top and the overflow tank to the “full cold” level.
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Issue 7 FOX Mustang Magazine 39