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

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Spring-type hose clamps × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Motorcraft Orange Coolant — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Place drain pan under radiator drain petcock location
5. Have replacement hose and clamps ready for installation

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Locate the radiator drain petcock at the bottom driver side of the radiator. Slowly turn counterclockwise to open and drain approximately 2 gallons of coolant into the drain pan. Once drained to below the upper hose level, close the petcock hand-tight.
   Torque spec

   Drain Petcock8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove engine cover if equipped
   If your F-150 is equipped with a plastic engine cover, remove it by pulling upward firmly at the attachment points. The cover is typically held by rubber grommets and does not require tools for removal. Set aside.
3. 3

   Locate upper radiator hose connections
   The upper radiator hose connects from the top of the radiator (driver side) to the thermostat housing on the front of the engine. Identify both connection points and the spring-type hose clamps at each end.
4. 4

   Remove radiator-side hose clamp
   Using hose clamp pliers or a flat-head screwdriver, compress or release the spring-type hose clamp at the radiator neck connection. Slide the clamp back along the hose at least 2 inches away from the connection point. Note the orientation of the clamp for reinstallation.
   ⚠Residual coolant will drain from the hose when removed. Keep drain pan positioned to catch spillage.
5. 5

   Remove engine-side hose clamp
   Release the spring-type hose clamp at the thermostat housing connection on the engine. Slide the clamp back along the hose away from the connection point. This may require reaching down between engine components.
6. 6

   Remove upper radiator hose
   Twist the hose gently back and forth to break the seal at both connection points. Pull the hose off the radiator neck first, then remove from the thermostat housing. Allow any remaining coolant to drain into the pan. Inspect both connection points for cracks, corrosion, or damage.
7. 7

   Clean connection surfaces
   Using shop towels, clean the radiator neck and thermostat housing connection points thoroughly. Remove any old rubber residue, corrosion, or debris. Inspect both necks for damage or cracks that could cause leaks.
8. 8

   Install new upper radiator hose
   Position the new hose clamps on the new hose approximately 1 inch from each end. Install the hose onto the thermostat housing first, pushing fully onto the neck until it seats against the ridge. Then attach the radiator end, ensuring full seating on both connections. The hose should route without kinks or tight bends.
9. 9

   Secure hose clamps
   Position each spring-type hose clamp approximately 0.5 inches from the end of each hose connection, centered over the connection ridge. Ensure clamps are properly seated in the hose groove. If using screw-type clamps instead, tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Refill cooling system
    Remove the coolant reservoir cap (engine must still be cold). Using a funnel, slowly add Motorcraft Orange coolant to the reservoir until it reaches the COLD FILL MAX mark. Do not overfill. Replace the reservoir cap securely.
11. 11

    Bleed cooling system
    Start the engine and allow it to run at idle with the heater set to maximum temperature. Monitor the coolant level in the reservoir as the engine warms up and the thermostat opens. Add coolant as needed to maintain proper level. Run until the cooling fans cycle on at least once, indicating full operating temperature has been reached.
12. 12

    Check for leaks
    With the engine at operating temperature, visually inspect both hose connections for any signs of coolant seepage or leakage. Check around the clamps and connection points. If any leaks are detected, shut off engine, allow to cool, and re-position or tighten clamps as needed.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall engine cover by aligning grommets with mounting posts and pressing firmly until seated
2. Wipe down any coolant residue from engine bay surfaces and components
3. Properly dispose of used coolant according to local environmental regulations

Verification

• Verify coolant level is at COLD FILL mark when engine is cold
• Check that both hose clamps are properly positioned and secure
• Confirm no coolant leaks are present at either connection after test drive
• Verify engine reaches normal operating temperature without overheating
• Check that heater produces hot air confirming proper coolant circulation

More procedures for this vehicle