Did a search and found all kinds of information (and horror stories) about FIXING broken radiator valves, but I have two questions. The valve has a "wing" on it that turns freely 1/4 turn, but nothing comes out. Do I need to put it in a certain position and pull out? Also, if this is the case, what is the closed position, wing straight up and down or sideways. I have a brand new thermostat on my bench and am trying to avoid A: breaking the cheezy plastic valve (or worse, the tank), and B: having the radiator pressure blow it open at 70 mph in the middle of nowhere. Thanks.

 

When you turn it counter clockwise it should come out as you turn. About a half turn I think. It should drain at this point without removing it fully. Turn it clockwise to re install.

I have never had one break. But if they do dorman makes a replacement that your local parts store should stock however it is not listed in most catalogs for our truck. But it can be found I. The dorman book if you know what it looks like. I don't have one now or I would find the part number.

 

Looks like mine is hosed, but thankfully in the closed position. It will turn 1/4 turn from lock to lock, but makes no attempt to come out or drain. Used some tygon tubing to syphon about three gallons of coolant into a bucket, enough to allow me to change out the thermostat. Shop vac worked great to get the siphon going. Will look for that kit before I mess with it. Sometime just having the new parts sheds a lot of light on how to to get the thing apart. Thanks for the info.

 

Went to Dormans website and found just what I was looking for. Thanks again !!

 

i have had to pull them out about 1/4" after turning them to start draining.