How to Get Air Bubbles Out of a 1996 Cavalier Engine

The cooling system on a 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier consists of the radiator, water pump, heater core and engine block. The water pump is driven by the serpentine belt and circulates coolant throughout the engine. This system is a sealed system that is under pressure to maintain a higher boiling point. Occasionally, repairs and leaks can allow air bubbles into the cooling system. Air bubbles can cause problems with the way to coolant circulates and maintains the operating temperature of the engine. The procedure for removing the air bubbles differs slightly between the 2.2 and 2.4 liter engines.

Instructions

2.2 Liter Engine

1

Allow the engine to completely cool down if youve been driving the vehicle. Remove the coolant reservoir cap and start the engine.

2

Loosen the coolant air bleed screw located on the top of the engine coolant outlet housing.

3

Add coolant to the reservoir and watch the air bleed hole. Tighten the air bleed screw when a solid stream of coolant begins to flow from the air bleed hole indicating that all of the air has been purged.

4

Continue adding coolant to the reservoir until it reaches the "Full Hot" mark. Replace the reservoir cap and run the engine until the upper radiator hose is hot.

5

Check the coolant level in the reservoir. If the coolant level is below the "Full Hot" mark, place a rag over the coolant reservoir cap and unscrew it slowly to allow the pressure to escape. Remove the cap completely and add coolant to bring the level slightly above the "Full Hot" mark. Replace the coolant reservoir cap.

2.4 Liter Engine

6

Allow the engine to completely cool down, remove the reservoir cap and then start the engine.

7

Wait for the engine to come up to operating temperature so the thermostat opens and the coolant is flowing freely.

8

Watch as air bubbles flow up into the reservoir. Add coolant as necessary if the level drops in order to raise the coolant level slightly above the "Full Hot" mark. Replace the reservoir cap when the bubbles stop flowing out and the coolant is at the appropriate level.