Hey guys,

Just wanted to find out how to add or replace radiator coolant on my 1992 Jaguar xj6 Vanden Plas.

What brand of coolant should i use?

Do i just open up the tank and add any kind of coolant or do i need to drain it and pour in a new one?

if i need to drain it, where can i find the drain plug?

Any advise you can give is highly appreciated.

Thanks much.

 

Brand is your choice, so check the specs in the "lube guide" charts at your parts supplier.

Since what is in there is an unknown, a flush of the old is a MUST. There is possibly a drain plug inside the RH lower radiator mounting peg, maybe mangled, but it is there I reckon. If not drop the lower hose, refill with clean water, run for a few minutes (heater ON), and drain again, and keep going until what drains out is as clean as what is going in.

Once satisfied, refill with the coolant as specified that you have selected. The filling is via the header tank on the LH inner guard area, just rearward of the aircleaner, and the system is self bleeding (our '88 was), so you should be OK once filled and checked after about 10 minutes running.

 

Thanks Francis,

My question might sound dumb to you but just to make sure i am doing it right.

when you say "run for a few minutes (heater ON)" this means with the engine running right?

and while engine is running keep filling in with water until water is clear coming out and thats where i stop the engine and refill the coolant with the brand of my choice.

thanks again, you're awesome.

ps. so this is the same as to how i change the coolant on my other cars, nothing special for jaguar and you said its self bleeding (whatever that meant).

 

NOPE, I have assumed toooooo much once again, SORRY.

1) Drain what is in there.
2) Refit the plug or hose.
3) Refill with clean water.
4) DO NOT refit the radiator/filler cap.
5) Start the engine, heater temp selector to HOT.
6) Run for about 10 minutes, shut it down.
7) Drain the system once more, CAREFUL here, as the system will have some heat in it, so if need be, wait for it to cool a tad.
8) Refit the hose/plug, and refill again, and repeat the procedure. Do this as many times as is required until the water draining is the same colour (or close) to what is going in, your done.
9) Drain it the last time, and refill with the NEW coolant you have selected, run the engine and ensure the header tank is at the correct level once "N" is reached on the gauge, refit the cap.

You will NEVER get all the muck out, but this procedure will get enough out to give the new stuff a fair and fighting chance of doing its task correctly.

 

Ideally you want a brand of antifreeze that is phosphate free-as recommended by the owners manual- which will help keep the internal corrosion minimized.

 

Any 50/50 coolant can be used. Consult your owners manual for the total amount needed.