I was having a problem with coolant leaking out of my overflow tube, so I checked the coolant level when the engine was cold and noticed that the level is almost to the top of the coolant dipstick! I was wondering what is the best and easiest way to remove the extra coolant so that the system doesn't get any air bubbles in it or anything. I used the search and couldn't find much. Thanks!

 

It'll burp out of the overflow tank when the engine gets hot. Or you could siphon it out.

 

The easiest way is to siphon it out as stated. The best way (IMHO) is to take the battery out and then remove the overflow tank. You can pour the coolant from the tank into a container and then replace the amount you actually need.

The advantage of pulling the overflow is that you can flush it clean. You can also wipe / paint that area of the engine compartment if you're so inclined. It's a good time to lube up the bolt that holds the battery in place and wash away any of the sulphur salts. I've cleaned the tanks on the 3 fbodies that I've owned and have always been glad of it. There's some nasty stuff in the bottom.

 

i just have to know, did this problem just start, or did you just have the coolant changed/ flushed? i only ask because if the return hose gets clogged, then the engine doesnt draw in the coolant that it might need when it cools down.

 

Well i just bought the car, but i believe that the owner before me just replaced the water pump so im guessing he flushed and filled the coolant.

 

I forgot to mention at one time some extra coolant came out from under the radiator cap also, so that is why i figured no lines were clogged or anything there was just too much coolant.

 

Turkey baster.

 

Would a baster be long enough to fit down the tube?

 

why couldn't you just use the pepcock thing on the bottom of the radiator located on the passenger side.

 

They are pretty long. If not long enough, you could put a hose on the end of it. Or...you could just use a long hose and siphon the coolant out.
Don't drink!

 

The overflow tank and the radiator are only "connected" when the pressure in the radiator exceeds 18 psi and the spring in the radiator cap lets coolant pass. Partially draining the radiator via the valve will not pull fluid from the overflow tank.

 

Well at least not right away. As the liquid in the system cools and shrinks the vacuum will draw coolant from the reservoir. In the mean time a partially filled radiator will result in over temp and the possibility of an aerated coolant flow.