no coolant - getting too hot!

[jonohall]

Hey guys,

I own a 1997 EL Falcon. Had it about a year now and love it. Anyways, over last few days noticed temp guage venturing higher than usual - even up to the top third, though still out of the red. Once the wind gets going through it it drops to about half way. Checked out the coolant reservoir, poured a couple of jugs in, there was nothing or very little in there!!!! Since I bought the car, the level would never stay where it was supposed to and the reservoir would be empty but can see the level where it drains into the hose and never any problems with temp.

My bro car same problem (also 1997 EL). I noticed after driving my bro's car that coolant was leaking out the bottom out of what appeared to be an overflow pipe - haven't checked outmine yet.

My question is why are our cars losing coolant out of an overflow and why did the reservoir always drop previously- some pressure problem or something?

And what are the steps in flushing the system- just a botch garden hose job. removing the thermostat housing I read somewhere??

cheers