Coolant Reservoir: Description and Operation

CAUTION: All vehicles use an aluminum radiator and require a special unique corrosion-inhibiting coolant formula to avoid radiator damage.

Included in the engine cooling system is a separate radiator coolant recovery reservoir. It is located beside the radiator and aids in maintaining the correct volume of coolant in the system by storing the excess coolant during engine operation. The excess coolant is drawn back into the system during engine cool down by natural coolant contraction.

In production, the cooling system is filled with a 50/50 mixture of Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid E2FZ-19549-AA or -B or equivalent meeting Ford specifications ESE-M97B44-A, and water. This mixture is formulated to prevent corrosion, maintain system cleanliness and provide anti-freeze protection in ambient temperatures above -40° C (-40° F). The specified mixture of anti-freeze and water will also minimize the potential for overheating during hot weather.

For the most effective cooling system operation, the specified mixture should be maintained all year round and in all climates.

If Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid E2FZ-19549-AA or -B or equivalent meeting Ford specifications ESE-M97B44-A is not available, use only a permanent antifreeze that meets Ford specification ESE-M97B44-A standards, and dilute with tap water. Do not use alcohol or methanol antifreeze or mix them with the specified coolant. Use of the wrong coolant may cause radiator and/or engine damage, and may void any applicable engine warranty.

Ordinary tap water may be used in an emergency except in areas where the water is known to be exceptionally hard or to have a high alkali content, but should be replaced with the proper mixture of Ford Premium Cooling System Fluid E2FZ-19549-AA or -B or equivalent meeting Ford specifications ESE-M97B44-AA and water as soon as possible.

A standard ethylene glycol hydrometer can be used to check the protection level of the coolant, or use Rotunda Battery/Anti-Freeze Tester 014-R1060 or equivalent.

To prevent damage to the cooling system or engine during periods below freezing when water or antifreeze is added to the radiator separately, always drive the vehicle (or operate the engine at fast idle for 30 minutes) before letting the vehicle stand with the engine off for prolonged periods. This will produce a uniform mixture throughout the cooling system and prevent damage from freezing when sufficient antifreeze is used.