Thermostat replacement

BrianV70 · Post by **BrianV70** » 08 Dec 2017, 14:16

Howdy!

Since I am lazy and don't want to make a giant mess, is it possible to replace the thermostat on my 2000 V70 XC without draining the radiator?

Its taking a long time to warm up, and running at 1/3 temp on the highway in cold weather (20s F).

Thanks!

Post by **abscate** » 08 Dec 2017, 14:28

You will lose some coolant, maybe 500ml-1000ml, so cover up your alternator with plastic or tin foil, and replace coolant when done. Idle engine with cap off until level drops, then top up, then put cap on and take for short 5 minute run, COOL DOWN, then cap off and top off again.

BrianV70 · Post by **BrianV70** » 08 Dec 2017, 14:39

Sounds like about the same amount of mess then if I don't drain it. I think I will drain it, and replace whatever comes out with new coolant. Probably do the temperature sensor too while I'm in there.

Sound like a good plan?

Post by **abscate** » 08 Dec 2017, 14:47

The maintenance schedule for Volvo is replace coolant every 3 years I think. If its due, or overdue, its a perfect time to catch up.

LOB · Post by **LOB** » 08 Dec 2017, 16:15

Actually, according to Volvo you never have to replace coolant. It's supposed to last the entire life of the car as long as it is the Volvo OEM coolant. Albeit that's what Volvo wrote regarding autotrans fluid as well....
Anyhow, every 3 years sounds a bit exaggerated, at least if you use the Volvo coolant which is supposed to contain highly efficient anti corrosion stuff.

Post by **erikv11** » 08 Dec 2017, 16:31

Never changing the coolant is a good way to stubbornly ruin your engine.

Three to five years is sensible. I'd use HOAT, not the green stuff.

Post by **matthew1** » 08 Dec 2017, 16:44

BrianV70 wrote: 08 Dec 2017, 14:39 Sounds like about the same amount of mess then if I don't drain it. I think I will drain it, and replace whatever comes out with new coolant. Probably do the temperature sensor too while I'm in there.

Sound like a good plan?

Yes. Draining coolant is to me far easier and cleaner than oil, and in this case will actually save you time and mess. Just don't break the fragile petcock valve on the bottom of the radiator.

Post by **cn90** » 08 Dec 2017, 16:46

I use Prestone green in my BMWs and Volvos for 20 years, zero issues.

Draining coolant is easy via lower rad hose. No need for a complete drain for tstat job. Just drain about 1/2 gallon so the level is just below the tstat.

WhatAmIDoing · Post by **WhatAmIDoing** » 08 Dec 2017, 22:48

For draining, I just pull off the lower rad hose so I don't have to worry about breaking the petcock.

Post by **abscate** » 09 Dec 2017, 03:57

LOB wrote: 08 Dec 2017, 16:15 Actually, according to Volvo you never have to replace coolant. It's supposed to last the entire life of the car as long as it is the Volvo OEM coolant. Albeit that's what Volvo wrote regarding autotrans fluid as well....
Anyhow, every 3 years sounds a bit exaggerated, at least if you use the Volvo coolant which is supposed to contain highly efficient anti corrosion stuff.

I did look up in my manual and , as LOB wrote, no recommendation on replacement.

Kicking my self for all those gallons I could have sold here as ' Volvo coolant, as good as new per manufacturer '

I could have bundled it with used oil like the cable company does.