This procedure covers the replacement of the radiator cap on a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 Coyote engine, a simple maintenance task requiring no coolant draining.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Radiator cap × 1 — Motorcraft RS-513 or equivalent 16 PSI cap

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and turn off engine
2. Allow engine to cool completely until radiator and upper hose are cool to the touch
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the radiator cap
   The radiator cap is located on top of the radiator assembly on the passenger side of the engine bay. It is a black or yellow cap with cooling system warnings printed on top.
2. 2

   Verify system is cool
   Touch the radiator cap and upper radiator hose with your hand to confirm they are completely cool. If there is any warmth, wait longer before proceeding.
3. 3

   Remove old radiator cap
   Using a shop towel over the cap for grip and protection, press down firmly on the radiator cap and rotate counterclockwise to the first stop. Pause for 2-3 seconds to allow any residual pressure to escape, then continue pressing down and rotating counterclockwise to remove the cap completely.
4. 4

   Inspect radiator neck and seal surface
   Examine the radiator filler neck for cracks, damage, or corrosion. Check the sealing surface where the cap seats for debris, corrosion, or damage. Clean the sealing surface with a shop towel if needed. Replace the radiator if the neck is damaged.
5. 5

   Inspect old cap
   Check the old radiator cap's rubber seal for cracks, hardening, or deterioration. Look at the spring and pressure valve mechanism. A faulty seal or weak spring indicates the cap needed replacement.
6. 6

   Install new radiator cap
   Align the new radiator cap tabs with the slots in the radiator neck. Press down firmly and rotate clockwise until the cap locks into position with a firm click or stop. The cap should be seated completely with no gaps visible between the cap and filler neck.
7. 7

   Verify cap installation
   Attempt to rotate the cap further clockwise to ensure it is fully locked. Try lifting the cap gently without pressing down to confirm it is secured and will not come off under pressure.

Reassembly

1. No reassembly required for this procedure

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature while monitoring coolant temperature gauge
• Visually inspect the radiator cap area for any coolant seepage or leaks around the cap seal
• After engine reaches operating temperature, shut off and allow to cool, then verify coolant level is at cold fill line on overflow reservoir
• Check that heater operates normally, indicating proper coolant circulation

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