Rep Power: 0

This weekend at some point, I'll be draining and filling coolant in my 98 civic (first time doing this).

I do have some rhino ramps. Would there be any benefit to using the ramps when I'm doing this---would any extra coolant be likely to drain out, if the front end was up on ramps?

 
Rep Power: 210

The benefit is you don't have to use a jack and jack stands. Make sure you put the e-brake (hand brake) on and use chocks for the rear wheels.

If you want to do a proper drain and fill there's a 17mm coolant jacket (block) drain bolt on the firewall side of the engine near the knock sensor. That should be removed too and if you do purchase a crush washer for it ahead of time. The additional benefit of using ramps (or stands) comes after refilling with antifreeze/water mix and bleeding air out of the coolant system. A raised front end promotes better air bleeding and removal of air pockets.

Coolant last a long time.. do you know when it was last replaced?

 
Rep Power: 0

It was 3-4 years, 38K miles ago. My mechanic put in green, so its time.

As far as the crush washers go--are these teh same size that are used for the drain plug when doing an oil change? That would be kind of convenient when buying a pack of 10 or so.

 
Rep Power: 210

Color of antifreeze is just a dye.. what is more important is using the same ingredients as factory recommended. Best to use either Honda brand or Pentosin's Pentofrost A3:http://knowhow.napaonline.com/choose...mport-vehicle/ that is cheaper and probably is OEM except that Honda rebrands it with their label and charges more for it.

I believe they are two differemt sizes. Call dealer and ask. I re-used the coolant jacket drain bolt washer on mine without issue however, I can't in good faith guide you to do the same.

 
Rep Power: 0

Unfortunately, I called the local dealer and they had no idea that I'd want to drain the coolant from anywhere other than the radiator, and they were pretty sure there was no crush washer used anywhere else other than the oil plug.

I'll call out of town, and be sure to ask for a part number.

 
Rep Power: 518

Not on the radiator.

If you try to drain from the back of the block.....I just smear it with RTV and reinstall. Too much trouble to try to get a new one LOL.
EDIT: I'm thinking of the big plug on the 1.7 engine, not a 6th gen

 
Rep Power: 210

I've actually reused the block's coolant drain bolt crush washer on mine twice without issue and on another car I've owned. OP: Honda Parts Now part #24 in diagram: http://www.hondapartsnow.com/parts-l...ohc.html?PNC=1
P/N:
90401-PR4-000
Washer, Sealing (28mm)

Or maybe Ace hardware, or chain auto parts store may have it: 28 mm

 
Rep Power: 0

No, not the radiator, the engine block. I have a 98 Civic, if that matters.