This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the coolant reservoir on a 2021-2024 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, including proper coolant drain and refill procedures.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Coolant reservoir tank × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Reservoir cap (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Motorcraft Orange Coolant — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch (minimum 2 hours after operation)
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Open hood and ensure adequate workspace lighting
4. Place drain pan under the radiator drain petcock location
5. Verify you have the correct replacement reservoir and sufficient coolant on hand

Procedure

1. 1

   Relieve cooling system pressure
   Slowly turn the coolant reservoir cap counterclockwise to the first stop to release any residual pressure. Wait for any hissing to stop, then remove the cap completely. Set the cap aside on a clean surface.
2. 2

   Drain coolant from system
   Locate the radiator drain petcock at the lower driver side of the radiator. Position the drain pan directly beneath it. Open the drain petcock by turning counterclockwise and allow coolant to drain into the pan. For faster draining, you can also open the cooling system bleed screw located on the upper radiator hose near the thermostat housing.
   Torque spec

   Drain Petcock8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

   Bleed Screw8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect reservoir inlet hose
   Locate the upper coolant hose connecting to the top of the reservoir from the radiator. Use hose clamp pliers or a flathead screwdriver to release the spring clamp or worm gear clamp. Slide the clamp back along the hose, then twist and pull the hose off the reservoir nipple. Be prepared for residual coolant spillage.
   ℹ️Some coolant will remain in the hose. Have shop towels ready to catch spillage.
4. 4

   Disconnect reservoir outlet hose
   Locate the lower coolant hose at the bottom of the reservoir that feeds the water pump. Release the hose clamp using the same method as the upper hose. Twist and pull the hose free from the reservoir. Allow any remaining coolant to drain into the pan.
5. 5

   Remove reservoir mounting bolts
   Locate the two mounting bolts securing the reservoir to the inner fender or radiator support bracket. These are typically 8mm or 10mm head bolts. Remove both bolts completely and set them aside. Note the bolt locations and any washers or grommets present.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove reservoir from vehicle
   Lift the reservoir straight up and out of the mounting bracket. Tilt it to drain any remaining coolant into the drain pan. Inspect the mounting grommets on the reservoir bottom - replace if cracked or deteriorated. Remove the cap from the old reservoir if reusing it.
7. 7

   Install new reservoir
   Position the new coolant reservoir into the mounting bracket, ensuring the bottom grommets seat properly in the bracket holes. Align the mounting bolt holes with the bracket. Install both reservoir mounting bolts and torque to specification using a torque wrench.
   ⚠Do not overtighten the mounting bolts as the reservoir is plastic and the mounting ears can crack.
   Torque spec

   Reservoir Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect outlet hose
   Push the lower outlet hose firmly onto the bottom reservoir nipple until it seats completely against the bead. Position the hose clamp over the connection point and tighten to specification. Ensure the hose is fully seated before tightening.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps5 Nm (3 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect inlet hose
   Push the upper inlet hose firmly onto the top reservoir nipple until fully seated. Position the hose clamp over the connection and tighten to specification. Verify both hose connections are secure.
   Torque spec

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

    Close drain petcock and bleed screw
    Close the radiator drain petcock by turning it clockwise until hand tight, then torque to specification. If the bleed screw was opened, leave it open for now to facilitate filling and bleeding. Remove the drain pan from under the vehicle.
    Torque spec

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

    Fill cooling system
    Using a funnel, slowly pour Motorcraft Orange coolant into the reservoir until it reaches the COLD MAX line. The system capacity is approximately 13 quarts total, but you may only need 1-2 quarts if only the reservoir was drained. Fill slowly to allow air to escape. If the bleed screw is open, continue filling until coolant flows from the bleed screw, then close it to specification.
    ℹ️Fill slowly to prevent air pockets. The system will need additional coolant after air purging.
    Torque spec

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

    Bleed air from cooling system
    Install the reservoir cap. Start the engine and allow it to warm up to operating temperature with the heater set to maximum heat. Monitor the temperature gauge for normal operation. As the thermostat opens and coolant circulates, air will be purged from the system. Run for 10-15 minutes, then shut off and allow to cool for 30 minutes.
    ⚠Keep hands clear of the radiator fan which may cycle on at any time when the engine is running.
13. 13

    Check and top off coolant level
    Once the engine has cooled enough to safely open the reservoir cap, check the coolant level. It should have dropped as air was purged from the system. Add coolant to bring the level to the COLD MAX line. Reinstall the cap securely. Inspect all hose connections for signs of leakage.

Reassembly

1. Verify all hose clamps are tight and positioned correctly over connection points
2. Ensure reservoir cap is installed and fully tightened to prevent pressure loss
3. Wipe down any coolant spills from the engine bay and reservoir exterior

Verification

• Check coolant level in reservoir is at COLD MAX line when engine is cold
• Inspect all hose connections at the reservoir for leaks or seepage
• Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature while monitoring for leaks
• Verify the temperature gauge reads normal and the heater produces hot air
• After a test drive, recheck coolant level when cool and top off if necessary
• Inspect the ground under the vehicle for any coolant drips after overnight parking

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