How To Replace Radiator & All Coolant Hoses on 97-01 Honda CRV (Coolant Flush DIY)

Denso CRV Radiator - amzn.to/2SXzmsP
Fail-Safe Thermostat - amzn.to/2GI0Mhe
Prestone Flush Kit - amzn.to/2T5UuNC
Help support my channel, purchase decals here - garagebuilthon...
/ garagebuilthondas
My GoPro - amzn.to/2YQ3OGZ
My Mirrorless Camera - amzn.to/2HzzFFT
Send me stuff here!
Jon Widmer
PO Box 13594
El Paso, TX 79913
Thanks for watching!
Disclaimer
"Due to factors beyond the control of Garage Built Hondas, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. Garage Built Hondas assumes no liability for any property or personal damage that may arise from doing a repair on your vehicle after watching any of my repair videos. Due to factors beyond the control of Garage Built Hondas, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Again, any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Garage Built Hondas."
DISCLAIMER: This video and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll potentially receive a small commission at no cost to you. This will help support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for you support!
#diy #repair #maintenance

[@tfriesen3866]

John, instead of refilling the system with the old coolant, you would be better off filling it with water or pushing the vehicle out to the driveway. This will keep any contaminants out of the smaller passages of the radiator (you noted the sludge in the block drain plug). Why ruin your new radiator, right?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Never once thought of doing it that way. Makes perfect sense! I rarely have changed radiators as preventative maintenance before but will definitely keep this in mind for future use. I love the input. It gives greater insight into this entire process for what *I helped* with and what has now been added in the comments.

[@baddestburrito4718]

Duuuuuuude! The reason I didn't do the full hose change 3 years ago on my EF, was because NOBODY had a video like this! Thank you!!! I only did the upper/lower rad hoses, and 1 of the heater hoses, and just buttoned everything back up, hoping that none of the little ones would leak. Now, I know better, thanks to you! You're really filling a need here, and I am grateful AF! And, the timing of this video couldn't be better. A friend of mine with an EF just asked me to change out his rad for him, and this video is the PERFECT guide for that procedure!! Question: you said that for the non-pre-formed hoses, you use generic hoses in the 5/16th and 5/8th sizes. Are those numbers correct for the EF, as well? No other KZbinr helps the fans like you do, Jon. Arigatou!!

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Thanks buddy! Those sizes are perfect for the EF also! Glad my videos always seem to go your way, love to hear it!

[@baddestburrito4718]

@@GarageBuiltHondas OMG, Jon, you're a freaking godsend! ✌️💯 I mean SERIOUSLY. My local Honda dealership was unable to provide me with ALL the parts; it seemed like the little hoses were unavailable, or the part numbers didn't come up, or some garbage like that. They sold me every one that they could get: upper/lower, coolant bypass, and 2 small heater hoses. From there, I tried rockauto, but they didn't have anything more. For three years, I have just been scratching my head, wondering what to do if any of the other hoses break, and (YIKES!) they are from 1991! I didn't even know what to CALL the other little sundry hoses, so what was a guy to do, eh? And now you just came along with the perfect solution. I had no idea you could use generic hoses like that. I also had no idea what sizes to get. This information is GOLD. Thank you!

[@EB240]

Best channel on youtube for honda content 100%

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

🙏👍❤️

[@dmironyuk]

Valve adjustments every 30k on these B20's; HONDA Service Bulletin, serious damage possible concluding burned valves as they tighten(not loosen) w/operation over time.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Thanks for the info!

[@sunkthegnome4914]

Really appreciate your videos I’m just getting into doing all the repairs myself and your videos have been super helpful! Good on ya mate!

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Hope they help you!

[@Iam-BruceLee]

My upper 98 crv radiator hose just popped a hole on the interstate yesterday evening. Small pin hole but enough to overheat in this desert heat. I’ve been planning on changing my hoses all summer. Guess I waited too long! Anyway nice vid 👍🏽

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

I'm lucky I haven't had any issues yet. I wanted to avoid as many as possible!

[@giovannigiorgio4622]

My new partners 01 just blew a hose, never seen her car engine before, and told her i will fix it..... im an old hand, but thank you VERY much for showing me what i have gotten my self into.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

You're welcome. Lol

[@giovannigiorgio4622]

@@GarageBuiltHondas It went very well 45 min job with + spark and oil change.... whats with the fuel filter? hi pressure? is it in the tank or somthing?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

No, it's right there on the firewall.

[@royzcustomz]

Good job! Its always a good idea to have extra heater and radiator hoses around just in case and I always use failsafe thermostats.

[@rd1danieljb596]

Crv lover here! Nice job bro, I’ll like to see more crv videos

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

I've got a few more coming up! 👍

[@hellraiser1478]

Appreciate your tutorials so much. Thank you for sharing. Cheers

[@michellesmalley5652]

I Thank you so much for your time and such detailed assistance.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

You are very welcome

[@devil262786]

Thanks nice video if I was planning to do a flush anyway I would have probably done the flush before I swap all those new parts and take out the thermostat so all the junk gets out easier and turn on the heater with the car running so that the radiator core will get clean as well then do all the parts swaps and fill it up with new antifreeze after everything to put together

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Nice 👍

[@plumkey197]

Well, your detailed videos and answering my questions got me through the water pump and timing belt job with flying colors, after having the exhaust cam off by one tooth and having to tear it down again! Should have watched your video first, rather than afterwards. This video is yet again another masterpiece and defines the word "detailed" with the close-ups. When I've done engine flushes in the past, I would usually have the backflush setup identical to yours, fill up the system, turn on the car, and turn off the hose and wait for the thermostat to open. When thermostat opens, turn on hose for five-ten seconds, shut off hose, rinse and repeat 4-5 times. Others have said this was unnecessary. You're a genuine Honda mechanic, so what is your opinion on waiting for the thermostat to open while flushing/back flushing? I usually use a chemical flush after the first drain and fill and drive the car for 10-15 minutes before back flush procedure, if it looks really dirty and gunky.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

I don't think it's necessary. You could easily remove the thermostat then perform the flush too. This method in the video has worked countless times for me on a variety of older Hondas with zero issues. I think many of these cars are neglected and a flush usually does the job regardless of which method you use.

[@plumkey197]

@@GarageBuiltHondas I vote for the complete removal of the thermostat. I've already started disassembly. Whoever did this previously has the thermostat gasket so gunked up with RTV that it took me a few minutes with a rubber mallet to free the housing. He must have used a half a tube of the stuff! Also used Loctite on all the bolts like when he did the water pump job. I just find using Loctite recreationally is unnecessary, and I've never had critical bolts back out without Loctite. I'm surprised I didn't round any bolts yet.

[@plumkey197]

I was going to use a Stant replacement thermostat, but the failsafe version sounds better!

[@plumkey197]

@@GarageBuiltHondas I appreciate your fast replies, since it's the wee hours. I have a window unit in my enclosed garage because it's 80 degrees outside with 100% Louisiana humidity and already have the hoses (rockauto.com). That's what working night shift for 30+++years does to your sleep schedule!

[@matthewwoodruff7537]

Absolutely THOROUGH and great Job. I enjoyed watching this very much.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Thank you!

[@TexasHondaChannel]

Very nice! That’s on my list of things to get for the boosted setup.

[@themechanic6117]

Nice work.very detailed. 👍

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Appreciate it man

[@themfdan2708]

Welp I gotta do this job but the problem is I'm in Japan and I'm just having trouble finding a radiator thank you for the video I don't think I'm gonna replace my hoses yet though

[@bleeneo101]

I definitely suggest doing this yourself opposed to having a mechanic do it because the price is astronomical if you don't. I speak from personal experience and own a 01 CR-V.

[@collin4930]

Agreed. I have zero experience working on cars. With the miracle of youtube and how well Honda put these cars together replacing the hoses was a snap.

[@bleeneo101]

@@collin4930 definitely. I think the most important aspect of doing it yourself is having the right space and climate or environment to work on your own vehicles. But nobody wants to work on anything in sub below temperatures. So unfortunately sometimes you have to pay someone for something you just don't have the place to do it. Just pray that they don't screw you or overcharge you after. In my case I was definitely overcharged I feel. Especially for this that I would have done if it was warmer out or had my own garage.

[@plumkey197]

Did you get any actual quotes for this job of changing all the hoses? The Honda dealerships and many private shops in my area will NOT work on any cars older than 10-15 years old because of the way certain parts tend to break and fall apart in your hands while taking it apart. I'm doing this for my housemate and I'm so curious how much my services would be worth, since I've already done a ton of work on his 97 crv, including the water pump and timing belt. Used GBH's videos too!

[@andrew.c.sk8]

Hey, I'm looking at doing this job tomorrow and wondering how many feet of the 5/8 and 5/16 hosing you purchased? I already followed your timing and water pump video and at 238,350 had the original belt as well. been getting great value from your channel, appreciate your work.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

I'd get 4' of both to be safe. I usually just keep a lot around the garage but that amount should be fine and won't be expensive either.

[@EvanLayne-bv7yr]

How did you get coolant into the block without the thermostat being open? After you run it and it heats up , the thermostat should open and pretty much drain the radiator causing cavitation. Am I missing something ?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Flow direction? I believe it's different on different manufacturers engines but these flow from top hose, into engine, to pump, back to thermostat.

[@theplotkeeper7080]

Currently im using this video for the bypass hose (the u-turn one) and thermostat replacement, but i know what I'll use when i can get around to a full coolant system refresh

[@Tulder]

Dude I have a 98 thanks for this

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

You're welcome, glad it helps!

[@bigjavi2681]

Man this is really good to know but I wish you lived nearby me so I can pay you to do this to my old CRV

[@MrCowboyjeff]

Hey buddy, your video is awesome, Thank you very much.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Thanks for the support!

[@majork4114]

Well done bro. Well done.

[@rmok2774]

This is a very good explained video and well informed. Can you tell me the name of the silicon please

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

RTV. Found at any auto parts store.

[@MrJoser1992]

Hey, jon when you remove the bolt behind the header to drain the coolant do you add thread seal or just bolt it back on. Your videos are great. Thank you in advance.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

I just bolted it back and on. No thread sealant is needed

[@MrJoser1992]

@@GarageBuiltHondas perfect, thank you for the response.

[@iggyG31]

i don't have a water hose in my apartment lol . could i just drain and fill with Distilled and be just as good ? then top off with asian coolant

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

It should definitely help than doing nothing.

[@Brianlsvtec]

Great video as always!

[@thephoenix7701]

at 6:38 what is that hose?

[@stevealvarado2995]

Great video! Thanks for being so thorough with your explanation of all the steps. One question, do you know what the pat that attaches under the throttle body is called. And do you recommend replacing it if the nipple is corroded. I noticed yours had some build-up but you didn't bother replacing it. Thanks!

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Fast idle thermo valve. You can clean it up with some sand paper or wire brushes you'd like. Define wouldn't hurt.

[@Yosoytuupapa]

How did you make that coolant flush valve?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

You can buy them at auto parts stores.

[@fgthatsthat.4245]

More crv vids PLEASE!!!!

[@justinchamberot7307]

Hey man I really like your video it was super informative, and you spoke very clearly which made it easy to apply the what you were taking about. I do have a question for you, directly above the upper coolants hose there's a black circle and im leaking engine oil from it. Could you tell me what that is and possibly how to fix it? Thanks abunch hope to hear from you.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Engine?

[@justinchamberot7307]

@@GarageBuiltHondas not to sure, its a 97 automatic. I didn't get the owner manual when I bought it

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

I'm not sure what the "black circle" is you're referring to. Google the car online and see if you can find some specifics for it.

[@justinchamberot7307]

@@GarageBuiltHondas give me a second ill see if I can find the engine model, but its basically a plastic black circle directly above the upper coolant hose and I mean directly above. It looks like its a capping off something. Anyway I can send you a photos?

[@druf.]

@justin chamberot cylinder head plug or cam plug seal

[@fgthatsthat.4245]

AWESOME

[@MichelleDaniellaS]

Coming from a chick with no experience, thank you, very well worded and great visuals to help teach me. 👍

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Glad to help!

[@aaronhendrix618]

Hey man my neighbor shot a rock from a lawn mower at my 89 hatchback can you make a video on removing the back vent window on the side?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Are you on Instagram?

[@FUCKY0UHATERS]

Yo i just installed bcracing coils looks nice on s2000 wheels

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

On a CRV?

[@leocampos42]

Where did you get that lil valve the connects too the hose?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Right here amzn.to/352maaj

[@shenanigans8apeach]

What was the original brand of the radiator that came out of the car?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

I don't recall.

[@nate35828]

is the hose that goes to the firewall from the thermostat the 5/8 size?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Yes

[@hummingbirdfeed]

i need help on my crv theres a leak and i cant find it it looks like the leak is coming from behind the belts and would drip down the oil pan

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Probably the oil pump seal.

[@hummingbirdfeed]

@@GarageBuiltHondas i thought that to but its water thats drippin down. would there be a hose from the radiator behind the belts?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

No. You're water pump is probably leaking.

[@jtp336]

Have you ever thought of adding a Vtec head to your CRV?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Not once. It's my daily, it's auto, and I want it to be as economical as possible.

[@TheActualCaveman]

That thing looks like it could use a chemical flush with all the mineral buildup there.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

I have really given it some thought and just may do so when I have a day to knock it out

[@omarG19100]

good job.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

👍🙏

[@molaroismorais1955]

What a job?

[@lebronjordan802]

Let us know how it holds up...

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Of course!

[@menaceemceefiend9716]

my 01 crv lx is having an issue where when i go past 40 mph the temperature gauge starts to rise going past the 2 water waves/close to the red mark but when i bring the mph back to 40 or below the temperature goes back down and to the normal half way mark. My fans turn on but only when i turn the ac on. Are they suppose to come on by them selves and if they are is this an indicator that my fan switch needs to be replaced or is it the fans? Checked for a blown head gasket and the test came out negative, the top hose is hot and the lower one is cool. Thats suppose to indicate that my thermostat works right? I think my water pump does work but what would be a symptom if it didn't work? My crv is at 147k miles. Im confused as to why my crv just started to randomly rise on the temperature gauge... Any help is appreciated

[@DiogenesNephew]

Did it end up being a bad thermostat?

[@menaceemceefiend9716]

@@DiogenesNephew I changed the thermostat, water pump, fan and coolant sensor, changed both fans. Never had the issue again

[@DiogenesNephew]

@@menaceemceefiend9716 Sounds like a thorough approach. I'm changing my radiator and want to change my fans for the hell of it while I'm in there. Did you go with Dormans?

[@menaceemceefiend9716]

@@DiogenesNephew I went wit a Failsafe thermostat

[@DiogenesNephew]

@@menaceemceefiend9716 Nah I meant for the fans

[@jesusagundez5843]

Dude!!! My water connecting Pipe Is leaking badly, I haven't found a DIY video Yet, it's frustrating!!

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

It's pretty easy. Might be able to just remove the thermostat housing and get the pipe out.

[@jesusagundez5843]

@@GarageBuiltHondas oh , ti connect the Pipe do I just hace to push It in?

[@ancientdiscoverys]

Did you loose any transmission fluid ?

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

Yup

[@ancientdiscoverys]

@@GarageBuiltHondas ....maybe i should check my transmission fluid then because i forgot to check when i did the radiator lol

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

You might be a little low but I doubt you lost enough to be under the lowest level.

[@ancientdiscoverys]

@@GarageBuiltHondas . I checked the level today and its fine, just the way it was. I got paranoid and checked it twice today to make sure lol.

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

😁👍

[@user-uf9im5sg9p]

Where did you buy hoses @garagebuilthondas

[@GarageBuiltHondas]

I bought them all off of Amazon.