How to change coolant in 91 Civic LX

[riot8ap]

Hi Guys,
new to the site here...looking for a little bit of info that I couldn't find through search.
I just ordered 3 bottles of AutoRX so I will be taking care of the engine, just changed my tranny fluid, now I would like to change the coolant.
The car has 176,000 miles, I have no idea the last time the coolant was changed. I bought the car last year and checked the dipstick and it read no oil if thats any indication of its maintenance record...
Anyways I don't know a heck of lot about cars...changed the valve cover gasket myself, along with the cap/rotor, wires etc. Coolant doesn't seem so hard just wanted some tips.

Basically I wanted to change the old rotting tubes along with the coolant fluid...do they come as a kit? I see that I should do distilled water flushes until it drains clear. What do I catch the old water/gook with?
Any idea on how much coolant the engine holds? I don't have the manual...and whats the best coolant to use? I live in Miami where it gets boiling hot.

Thanks sorry about all the questions.

 

[uconn1150]

I flushed my Honda by:
1) removing the bottom hose
2) let coolant drain into pan
3) reconnect hose
4) add water
5) run engine and heater (high) for 10 mins
6) repeat 1-5 until water drains clear...

You may also want to drain the existing coolant, replace with water and 1 jug of Prestone super radiator cleaner...good stuff...run for a week, then perform the above flushing procedure...

Also, one gallon of AF/Coolant should be enough!

[ February 20, 2004, 09:19 PM: Message edited by: uconn1150 ]

 

[uconn1150]

[ February 20, 2004, 09:20 PM: Message edited by: uconn1150 ]

 

[uconn1150]

oops...delete me...

[ February 20, 2004, 09:20 PM: Message edited by: uconn1150 ]

 

[timmy8151]

You also should drain the coolant from the block. While you're at it you should also replace the thermostat.

 

[seotaji]

remember to get honda coolant, b/c regular coolant is evil and bad for your waterpump & seals.