Cooling system — filling with fresh coolant (Opel Ascona C)

When replacing the coolant, it is essential to flush the system.

1. Check that all hoses and clamps are in good condition and that the clamps are tight.

2. Check that the heater control is in the "full heating" position and remove the expansion tank cap. To allow air to escape from the system when filling, on 1.3 engines, partially unscrew the temperature sensor from the intake manifold. On larger engines, loosen the bleed screw on the thermostat housing. If there is no bleed screw on the thermostat housing, the system is self-bleeding.

3. Pour coolant into the expansion tank, doing this slowly to prevent air locks from forming in the system.

4. When replacing antifreeze, first pour about a liter of clean water into the system, and then the required amount of antifreeze (based on half the system capacity - see Specifications, which will give the required 50%). Add water until the required level is reached.

5. Close the bleed screw or replace the temperature sensor after air-free liquid starts flowing out of the hole. Add water so that the liquid level in the tank is 10 mm above the "KALT" mark on the wall of the expansion tank. Squeeze the main system hoses several times to remove any possible water locks. Replace and tighten the tank cap and wipe up any spilled liquid.

6. Start the engine and run it at fast idle speed until the electric fan turns on. Carefully inspect the system for leaks. Turn off the engine and let it cool down, then check the fluid level in the expansion tank and top up if necessary. Remember that the fluid level must be checked on a cold system.