lexus114

Title pretty much states what happened,I was going to change my coolant this past weekend.So,I went under to find the petcock,and drain out the old coolant.First off this thing is not at a good location (my 2001`s was at a much nicer place) Secondly,the friggin thing is so tight,I broke the ear off trying to loosen it.Now all I have is a sharp broken off ear on the damn thing!! Now I suppose I have two options (due to the location) 1.pull out the radiator to fix it.Or 2.just pop the lower radiator hose to drain it,although that will be quite messy! All because some fool had an over tightening fetish!!!

arnieosp

iTrader: (1)

You only need to drain it once every few years, I would just pop the hose and not worry about the drain plug.

lexus114

Yeah,I`m thinking the same thing.

Rainbird

Why not just buy a new petcock and replace it. Surely it can't be that expensive. But then again it's a Lexus, so you never know!

lexus114

Because it is like arnieosp mentioned,why bother I`ll just drop the lower hose and not worry about it for another 60000 miles.

LeoDLion

Sometimes its tight because the thread is encrusted with dried up residue from the coolant or crud. If its a pita to replace then follow what others suggested and drain from the lower hose.

Rainbird

This forum never ceases to amaze me. People will think nothing about spending thousands of dollars to install larger wheels, new grills, or fancy stereo setups. But when it comes to replacing a $10 radiator drain, they elect to pull the lower hose. All I can say is you better have a large pan, quick hands and rubber gloves. Good luck!

arnieosp

iTrader: (1)

It's probably not about $10. First, he would have to dig out the broken plug. Depends on how bad it's seized, there is a chance of busting the lower tank, because it's just plastic. Then he will be looking at replacing the radiator, which will be a whole lot more then $10. Is it worth it?

Rainbird

I forgot this is a plastic radiator. You make a good point. Maybe it's not worth the risk.

lexus114

Yeah!! what he said!!!

mandyfig

Where did they come up with the word petcock anyway?

lexus114

I know right?? You said......... Eh,Ehahahahahaha