Replace both upper and lower radiator hoses on the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, including coolant drain, hose removal, and system refill.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Motorcraft EH-201 or equivalent
• Lower radiator hose × 1 — Motorcraft EH-202 or equivalent
• Hose clamps (set of 4) × 1 — Worm-drive style, 40-60mm
• Coolant (concentrate or premixed) × 1 — Motorcraft Orange VC-3DIL-B

Fluids

• Motorcraft Orange Coolant — 13 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold (not run for at least 2 hours)
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
4. Open hood and secure in raised position
5. Remove engine cover by pulling upward on all four corners to release clips
6. Locate coolant reservoir and slowly remove cap to release any residual pressure
7. Position large drain pan (4+ gallon capacity) under radiator drain plug

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Locate the radiator drain plug on the driver side bottom of the radiator tank. Using a ratchet or wrench, loosen and remove the drain plug completely. Allow coolant to drain fully into drain pan. Once drained, reinstall drain plug finger-tight only for now.
2. 2

   Access upper radiator hose connections
   The upper radiator hose connects the radiator to the thermostat housing on the front of the engine. On the 3.5L EcoBoost, you may need to move the air intake tube slightly for better access. Identify the hose clamps at both the radiator and thermostat housing ends of the upper hose.
3. 3

   Remove upper radiator hose clamps
   Using hose clamp pliers or adjustable pliers, compress or loosen the spring-type clamps (if equipped) or use a flathead screwdriver to loosen worm-drive clamps. Slide clamps away from connection points - at least 2-3 inches back on the hose. Note the orientation and position of clamps for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove upper radiator hose
   Twist the upper hose gently while pulling to break the seal at both connection points. Remove the hose completely from the vehicle. Some residual coolant will drain - have shop towels ready. Inspect the connection points on radiator and thermostat housing for corrosion, cracks, or damage. Clean any debris or old gasket material from both connection surfaces.
5. 5

   Access lower radiator hose
   The lower radiator hose connects the bottom of the radiator to the water pump/engine block on the passenger side. Access is more restricted than the upper hose. You may need to reach from above or below depending on your comfort. Locate both hose clamps at the radiator outlet and water pump inlet.
6. 6

   Remove lower radiator hose clamps and hose
   Loosen or release both clamps on the lower radiator hose using the same method as the upper hose. Slide clamps back on the hose. Twist and pull the lower hose to remove from both connection points. Additional coolant will drain - ensure drain pan is positioned correctly. Inspect and clean both connection surfaces on the radiator and water pump.
7. 7

   Install new lower radiator hose
   Position new lower radiator hose with proper orientation - match the bends and routing to the original hose. Press the hose firmly onto both the radiator outlet and water pump inlet until it seats completely against the stops (typically 1.5-2 inches onto each fitting). Ensure hose is not twisted or kinked.
8. 8

   Install and tighten lower hose clamps
   Slide new hose clamps (or reuse OEM spring clamps if in good condition) onto the hose and position them approximately 1/2 inch from the end of each hose connection point. Tighten worm-drive clamps evenly using a torque wrench or tighten spring clamps until they are seated in the groove. Do not overtighten as this can damage the hose.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Install new upper radiator hose
   Position the new upper radiator hose, aligning it with the radiator inlet and thermostat housing outlet. Press the hose firmly onto both connections until fully seated against the stops. Verify the hose routing does not interfere with any moving parts, sharp edges, or hot components. Ensure proper clearance around the cooling fan.
10. 10

    Install and tighten upper hose clamps
    Install new hose clamps on both ends of the upper radiator hose, positioning them approximately 1/2 inch from the end of the hose. Tighten clamps to specification, ensuring even pressure around the circumference of the hose.
    Torque spec

    Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Secure radiator drain plug
    Ensure the radiator drain plug threads are clean and undamaged. Install the drain plug and tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Coolant Drain Plug15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Refill cooling system
    Using a funnel, pour Motorcraft Orange coolant into the coolant reservoir until it reaches the MAX COLD FILL line. If using concentrate, mix 50/50 with distilled water before adding. Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature (thermostat opens, approximately 195°F). Monitor coolant level and add as needed while engine runs. You may need to burp air from the system - squeeze upper radiator hose gently while engine idles to release trapped air pockets.
13. 13

    Pressure test and leak inspection
    With engine at operating temperature, inspect all four hose clamp connections for any signs of coolant seepage. Check the radiator drain plug for leaks. Allow engine to idle for 10-15 minutes, cycling the heat to full hot and full cold to circulate coolant through entire system. Recheck all connections. Turn off engine and allow to cool for 30 minutes, then verify coolant level is still at MAX COLD FILL line.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall engine cover by aligning clips and pressing down firmly until all four corners click into place
2. Verify air intake tube is properly connected and secured if it was moved during service
3. Close hood and wipe down any coolant residue from exterior surfaces

Verification

• Start engine and verify no coolant leaks at any hose connections or drain plug
• Confirm engine reaches normal operating temperature (gauge reads normal range)
• Verify heater blows hot air at idle and under acceleration
• Check coolant reservoir level after engine cools - should be at MAX COLD FILL line
• Inspect under vehicle for any coolant drips or puddles after 24 hours of normal driving
• Monitor coolant level and engine temperature for the first few days of operation

More procedures for this vehicle