Ice in Radiator

Asked by SharonM1982 Jan 03, 2018 at 01:27 PM about the 2001 Ford Expedition XLT 4WD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Ice in Radiator can my SUV be drove like that?.
2001 Ford Expedition

3 Answers

101,345

It will restrict coolant flow and impede cooling in motor, it may also prevent engine coolant sensor from doing its job. If you have the time, run the engine in the driveway/garage and let it get up to temp, it should start melting the ice in the radiator, keep a close eye on temp gauge and shut motor off after a few minutes, especially if you start getting that "overheating" smell. (If you have a heat gun you can speed the thawing process). I've seen ice in a radiator persist much longer than you may believe possible, but restricted flow and moving at 30+MPH in cold weather can keep a radiator frozen for a long time. After you do get radiator thawed, give it a flush with proper cold-weather coolant. You should replace coolant every couple years anyhow as its rust inhibitors break down over time.

1 people found this helpful.
101,345

PS to add, don't drive it on road, you can cause engine to overheat with a restricted radiator, and you won't be able to shut motor off soon enough if it does.

1 people found this helpful.
3,770

If you have ice in the radiator wouldn't you'd think you'd have ice in the engine block?????

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