Coolant Reservoir

Remove and replace the coolant reservoir tank on a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost engine, including coolant drain and refill procedures.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Coolant reservoir tank × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Coolant reservoir cap × 1 — Use OEM specification or reuse if undamaged
• Hose clamps (if corroded) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Motorcraft Orange Coolant — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch (minimum 2 hours after last operation)
2. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
3. Place drain pan under radiator drain petcock location on driver side of radiator
4. Verify you have the correct Motorcraft Orange coolant before beginning

Procedure

1. 1

   Relieve cooling system pressure
   Slowly rotate the coolant reservoir cap counterclockwise to the first stop and allow any residual pressure to escape. Wait 10 seconds, then continue turning to remove the cap completely. Set cap aside on a clean surface.
2. 2

   Drain coolant from system
   Locate the radiator drain petcock on the lower driver side of the radiator. Position drain pan beneath the petcock. Turn the petcock counterclockwise to open and allow coolant to drain into the pan. You do not need to drain the entire system, only enough to drop the level below the reservoir outlet hose connection (approximately 1-2 quarts).
   Torque spec

   Drain Petcock8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect reservoir outlet hose
   Locate the lower hose connection on the coolant reservoir that feeds to the radiator. Using hose clamp pliers or flathead screwdriver, reposition the hose clamp away from the reservoir neck. Gently twist and pull the hose off the reservoir nipple. Allow any residual coolant to drain into your drain pan.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps5 Nm (3 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Disconnect reservoir return hose
   Locate the upper return hose on the reservoir (typically on the side or top). Reposition the hose clamp and remove the hose from the reservoir using the same technique as the outlet hose. Keep shop towels handy as some coolant will spill.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps5 Nm (3 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove reservoir mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the two mounting bolts securing the reservoir to the fender well bracket. Support the reservoir with one hand while removing the second bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Reservoir Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove reservoir from vehicle
   Lift the reservoir straight up and out of the engine bay. Tilt as needed to avoid spilling residual coolant. Pour any remaining coolant from the old reservoir into your drain pan. Inspect the old reservoir for cracks or damage to confirm replacement was necessary.
7. 7

   Prepare and install new reservoir
   Inspect the new reservoir to ensure it matches the old unit and includes the correct number of hose connections. Check that both hose nipples are clean and free of debris. Lower the new reservoir into position in the mounting bracket, aligning the bolt holes.
8. 8

   Install reservoir mounting bolts
   Thread both mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Once both bolts are started, tighten to specification using a torque wrench: 8.0 Nm (6.0 lb-ft). Do not overtighten as this can crack the reservoir mounting tabs.
   Torque spec

   Reservoir Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect coolant hoses
   Slide the hose clamps onto both hoses if not already in place. Push the return hose firmly onto the upper reservoir connection until it seats completely. Install the outlet hose to the lower connection with the same technique. Position clamps 1/4 inch from the end of each hose and tighten to 5.0 Nm (3.0 lb-ft).
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps5 Nm (3 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Close radiator drain and refill system
    Close the radiator drain petcock by turning clockwise until hand tight, then torque to 8.0 Nm (6.0 lb-ft). Using a funnel, slowly pour Motorcraft Orange coolant into the reservoir until the level reaches the COLD MAX line. Do not overfill.
    Torque spec

    Drain Petcock8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Bleed air from cooling system
    Locate the coolant bleed screw on top of the engine (typically on the thermostat housing or coolant crossover). Open the bleed screw 1-2 turns. Continue adding coolant to the reservoir until coolant flows steadily from the bleed screw without air bubbles. Close the bleed screw to 8.0 Nm (6.0 lb-ft). Top off reservoir to COLD MAX line.
    Torque spec

    Bleed Screw8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Initial system check
    Install the reservoir cap and turn clockwise until it clicks (typically 2 clicks). Wipe down all connections with shop towels. Visually inspect all hose connections and the drain petcock for leaks. Start the engine and allow it to idle while monitoring for leaks.

Reassembly

1. After initial leak check, run engine until cooling fans cycle on and off at least once to ensure thermostat has opened
2. Turn engine off and allow to cool for 30 minutes, then recheck coolant level and top off to COLD MAX line if needed
3. Dispose of old coolant properly at a recycling center or automotive parts store that accepts used coolant

Verification

• With engine cold, verify coolant level is at COLD MAX line on reservoir
• Inspect all hose connections and reservoir mounting area for coolant leaks or stains
• Check that reservoir cap is properly seated and locked
• Perform a test drive and monitor engine temperature gauge to confirm normal operating temperature
• Recheck coolant level after test drive when engine has cooled - level should remain at COLD MAX line

More procedures for this vehicle