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Cheap tool to loosen radiator petcock

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Old Nov 24, 2009 | 07:19 PM
  #1  
Termite's Avatar
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From: Havertown PA
Default Cheap tool to loosen radiator petcock

A couple of week ago I was replacing the coolant in a 2004 Sebring sedan. I noticed that the radiator petcock was in reach of my left hand, but I couldn't get my fingers in the right position to loosen it. I saw where some people said to remove the lower radiator hose to get the coolant out, but it sits about 6 inches from the bottom, and I wanted to be able to remove as much coolant or water, so I could be sure to get in enough antifreeze to mix with the existng water left in the engine after flushing for a strong enough mixture for freeze protection.

I came up with a tool made from an old vitamin bottle lid with a slot cut into it to fit the handle of the petcock. It is a little under 2.25 " in diameter with a slot @ 1 and 1/8" long by 3/16th's wide.

When you fit it over the petcock, it is easy for your hand to grab it, and the larger size gives you more leverage to twist it open.

I heard some people say sometimes the petcock gets stuck, but in my case it worked out great.
 
Attached Thumbnails Cheap tool to loosen radiator petcock-petcock-tool.jpg   Cheap tool to loosen radiator petcock-petcock.jpg  

Last edited by Termite; Nov 24, 2009 at 07:22 PM.
Old Mar 27, 2010 | 01:06 PM
  #2  
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Default Petcock tool

When I try to view your photos I get a vBulletin telling me that I do not have the privilege to view them.
 
Old Mar 27, 2010 | 06:53 PM
  #3  
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Cool tool. Nice job, Termite!
 
Old Sep 4, 2011 | 10:19 AM
  #4  
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Can we replace a leaking radiator petcock on 2004 sebring? Sure would beat having to replace the radiator like 2 shops have offered. LOL
 
Old Sep 4, 2011 | 01:52 PM
  #5  
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From: Tennessee
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Originally Posted by Ironcheese
Can we replace a leaking radiator petcock on 2004 sebring? Sure would beat having to replace the radiator like 2 shops have offered. LOL
Is it leaking? Will it not stay in? I have a fix for that if it is popping out.
 

Last edited by TNtech; Sep 4, 2011 at 01:54 PM.
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