I am planning on changing the upper/lower radiator hoses and bought OEM hoses since I really like the idea that they double up on the bends in the hoses... I'm also planning on changing the thermostat since I'll be right there. If I'm draining the antifreeze, should I clean the radiator? If so, could I fill with regular H2O, run the car for a few minutes, drain and replace with antifreeze/H2O? Would this cause a problem if I only run the car for a few minutes (2-3 minutes) till the car gets warm? Also, should I change the thermostat? It works fine but I figure a little preventative maintenance could not hurt....

Thanks

 

I think I added this too late last night and it was missed so I'm re-posting. Thanks!

 

There are a number of Radiator flushes that you add to your OLD coolant and run for a few minutes to loosen the existing rust and junk in your cooling system. You then flush the old junk out with fresh water, then add your fresh antifreeze/water mix.

If you want to change your thermostat, the thermostat and outlet housing are sold as a unit making it more expensive than a normal thermostat. Nissan wants to get a few more $ from you. It is probably a good idea if you are changing your hoses.

 

The thermostat isnt expensive at all like $16 at the most. I was suprised at how cheap it actually was from the dealer considering it is a nice piece of aluminum and all......

The hoses arent that bad to change either......just did mine