73-87chevytrucks.com

73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Engine/Drivetrain => Topic started by: beastie_3 on May 01, 2010, 04:13:47 pm

Title: Radiator petcock
Post by: beastie_3 on May 01, 2010, 04:13:47 pm
I am going to install a new aluminum radiator in my truck. I was thinking of replacing the petcock with something else, since coolant gets everywhere when draining it with the petcock. The steering gear box is right in the way of using a funnel.

Has anyone used anything different, or found a good way of funneling the fluid better?
Title: Re: Radiator petcock
Post by: Captkaos on May 01, 2010, 11:09:12 pm
I generally slip a 3/8" fuel hose on the end when draining them.
Title: Re: Radiator petcock
Post by: joesgarage71 on May 02, 2010, 04:19:56 am
 I don't bother with the drains, I got a big pan and just take the lower rad hose off.
Title: Re: Radiator petcock
Post by: VileZambonie on May 02, 2010, 09:22:20 am
I also put a hose on the end of it.
Title: Re: Radiator petcock
Post by: beastie_3 on May 03, 2010, 02:45:25 pm
Do you just hold the hose there? There is nothing for the hose to slip onto.
Title: Re: Radiator petcock
Post by: jaredts on May 03, 2010, 03:15:07 pm
Go look at replacement petcocks.  Some of them have around a 3/8" diameter barrel.  Right after I bought my truck it was idling in my driveway and suddenly the petcock gave out and hot coolant went spraying everywhere.  I only missed getting hurt by a few seconds as I was just looking down in that direction.  After draining my coolant and removing the petcock I was surprised to see it looked undamaged.  For years I had a replacement in my toolbox for just such an occasion.  The one I took out had nothing for a hose, but the replacement did.
Title: Re: Radiator petcock
Post by: beastie_3 on May 03, 2010, 03:18:52 pm
OK Ill search for one. I wasn't sure they were available. Ive never seen one on any of my vehicles. Thanks!
Title: Re: Radiator petcock
Post by: VileZambonie on May 03, 2010, 06:04:23 pm
http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/raframecatalog.php?carcode=1146888&parttype=2176&a=FRc1146888k12456-2985871
Title: Re: Radiator petcock
Post by: beastie_3 on May 03, 2010, 06:21:13 pm
Awesome, thanks!!