Can anyone tell me where it is if there is one? I'm replacing the radiator hoses and really don't want to simply yank them off and make a mess. Thanks.

Actually, yanking the bottom radiator hose at the radiator is the easiest way to drain the radiator.

There shoudl be a drain plug but it is probably well hidden like on my 93 Eldo. We're all used to a petcock-like thingie which is mounted on the bottom of one of the radiator's end tanks. Well, mine was not quite there. The actual drain "knob" is located right under the bottom radiator hose fitting on the vertical back surface of the end tank. Facing towards the back of the car. It is flat disk shaped plastic thing with a rib in the middle. You are supposed to grasp the rib and turn it. Well, I had to make a wrench (piece of pipe with a slot cut through the end) to turn it.

Yours might be similarly hidden.

Just take the bottom hose off... :D

Peteski

They often snap in two when you try to turn them.
Removing the hose with a suitable bucket underneath is probably the best method if you plan to reinstall the same radiator.
They all have a drain of some sort in them, on one of the bottom corners.
(although I don't think I remember seeing one on the CTS-V radiator)

Yes, on the driver's side. There's even a hole in the pan to get to it. Nothing is simpler.

Also, the drain plug is lower than the lower hose, so if you want to drain the most coolant - use the plug and add the sealant in the upper hose.

Thanks guys. Ecstsatic, what sealant are you referring to?

When I changed coolant in my '02, I could not remove the lower hose from the radiator. The clamp was situated in such a way, that removing the radiator, would have to occur, to get at the clamp. So, I had to remove the lower splash shield. You will see a rather large round hole, in the lower radiator support. Look in that hole, and you will find the drain plug. All fingers, except the tiniest, will not be able to get at the plug. Use a 19mm socket. Real easy.

Don

Thanks guys. Ecstsatic, what sealant are you referring to?

It's an additive that comes in powder or pellet form. You can get it from GM or buy the BarsLeak version from Wal-Mart, it's the same thing.
I don't have the part numbers - someone else can provide that or your can search for the answer. Be sure you use the right product - not one of the many other "stop-leak" formulas out there.

It's an additive that comes in powder or pellet form. You can get it from GM or buy the BarsLeak version from Wal-Mart, it's the same thing.
I don't have the part numbers - someone else can provide that or your can search for the answer. Be sure you use the right product - not one of the many other "stop-leak" formulas out there.

Either get the tablets at a GM Parts counter (the part number is located on the radiator support cover--that sticker by the hood latch), or get the BarsLeak Golden Powder (two tubes).

Pour in the powder in a radiator hose, prior to filling up with coolant. It is factory recommended due to possible cast porosities in the aluminum block, and other leaks. Cheap.

Barsleaks product is HDC (tabs) or G12BP (powdered).

Barsleaks product is HDC (tabs) or G12BP (powdered).

If you do go the Barsleak way, make sure to get exactly the ones Ranger specified.

BarsLeak makes a lot of products (alumaseal, rabbit droppings in sludge, etc) and just because BarsLeak makes it does not mean it belongs in your engine/cooling system.