I'm replacing my front engine mount (4cyl) this weekend and it looks like I'll be removing the radiator hose for clearance and may lose some coolant. My question is, when topping off do I fill through the overflow tank or radiator? Also, do I need to use the expensive Honda type 2 or can I use coolant from an auto parts store?

 

Fill the overflow tank. For the minor amount of coolant your going to lose, just top off with distilled water.

 

I read this a bit differently. If the coolant has not been changed out and you "have to open up the system" to do the work.....why not drian it and re-fill with fresh coolant?

The Honda Type II coolant fluid can be had for ~$18 a gallon all day long...it is an '07 so if the coolant hasn't been changed?

 

If you are going to drain all the coolant out, there is a procedure you need to follow. It's not as simple as draining and filling.

 

Thanks for the feedback. I had the coolant replaced about 32k miles ago. i completed the engine mount replacement and topped off with distilled water but now it runs hot (just above half way on the gauge). When I topped off, I filled to the "max" line, ran to operating temp. then shut off. After a couple of hours I checked the level and it had dropped to half way between "max" and "min". I started and ran for a few minutes and it seemed fine (normal temp) so I took it for a short drive and that is when it got hot. I just parked it and will check the level in another couple of hours. Am I missing something?

 

Normally, if you were topping it off the coolant, you would top off both the radiator and overflow/reservoir tank.

Check the level in the radiator when it is cool, it is just as easy to do as checking and filling the overflow.

Myself, I would have added coolant. Although it is not necessary to use Honda coolant, I use Honda Type II coolant on my own Hondas after I seen corrosion in Hondas that used some other brands. If someone or me was trying to save a little money, I do use non-Honda brand coolant.

I usually pick up Honda Type II coolant (which is pre-mixed) for about $15 a gallon.

 

Thanks, Redbull. I topped off the radiator, burped it and no more overheating.

 

When it's cold, you can squeeze the radiator hoses. Listen & feel for "sloshing" liquid, that would indicate air pockets. Squeezing the hoses just sounds different when there's a bunch of air in the system.