1996 Ford Explorer Owner's Manual - Page 356

Engine Coolant Drain and Flush To drain your vehicle's engine coolant: 1. Turn off the engine and let it cool. Fully depressurize the engine cooling system by covering the radiator cap with a thick cloth and turning it slowly counterclockwise to the first stop. Step back while the pressure releases. 2. Remove the cap. 3. Attach a small hose to the drain tube at the bottom of the radiator. 4. Let the engine coolant drain into a suitable container. Disconnect the lower radiator hose at the radiator connector and drain any remaining engine coolant into a container. Proper procedures for flushing the cooling system can be found in the Service Manual. Engine coolant refill procedure After you have drained the engine cooling system: 1. When cold, fill the radiator to a level 1 to 1 1/2 inches (38 mm) below the filler neck seat. 2. Replace the radiator cap to its fully installed position, then back off to the first stop. This will prevent high pressure from building up in the cooling system during this part of the fill procedure. 3. Start and idle the engine until the thermostat opens and the radiator upper hose becomes warm. 4. Shut off the engine and allow the engine to cool. Cover the radiator cap with a thick cloth and cautiously remove it. Step back while the pressure releases. 356