I want to flush out the very old coolant in my 84 Camaro. I think the radiator is the original one and it doesn't leak at all. I don't see any pepcock on the radiator so I can drain it. I crawled under the car and did see a "round dial" (I think) near the bottom of the radiator but it wouldn't turn. Is that what should open so I can drain the radiator? Sorry for what probably is a stupid question to you guys but I need your expertise.

 

If it's the plastic tank radiator, there's a **** at the passenger's lower corner of the radiator. Turn the **** counter clockwise and it should start draining. Sometimes they can get blocked or jammed up. The valve can be removed from the radiator and replaced if it breaks.

 

Thanks! Should this plastic valve or **** come all the way out? Who would sell a replacement **** if it breaks - any parts store chain like Autozone should have it?

Also, I was surprised to find out the radiator was plastic. Was that a factory option or did the car originally have a metal radiator?

 

The end tanks on most stock thirdgen radiators are plastic. Aside from the plastic getting brittle with age and heat cycles, they're just fine.

The **** will only unscrew so far, the end is barbed and snaps into the nut, and the nut snaps into the radiator tank. Dorman offers a replacement with the valve and nut, seals, etc. Should be able to find one at most local chain stores.

 

Awesome! Great information to know before I attempt to unscrew this. Thank you very much!