I removed my radiator to get it repaired and now want to flush the engine. Is it safe to connect a water hose to the upper hose, start the engine and flush the engine block?
I do not want to install a brand new radiator and run dirty water from the engine through it.
If I run the engine and monitor the heat gauge to insure it does not over heat will this be safe?
Also should I disconnect the heater hoses to do this?

 

The cooling system on your vehicle circulates from the bottom of the radiator through the water pump up to the upper hose back to the radiator. There is a thermostat that is presently closed (engine not at operating temp) so you can't do too much to flush unless you remove the thermostat.
Look for a drain on the lower part of the engine and open it so all the liquid in the engine can exit.That should get rid of most of the old coolant.
A good quality anti-freeze will help prevent future corrosion if changed regularly as advised in your owner's manual.

 

Thanks for the response, I plan to remove the thermostat prior to doing the flush to insure I would not run into the problem of the thermostat not opening.

 

While you are in there, if the hoses feel a little spongy, that would be the time to replace them along with the thermostat..

We don't know the year of your vehicle, but if those parts are original and you are dealing with corrosion, chances are they are due for replacement.

 

Thanks for the input, the plan is to replace hoses (including heater hoses) and thermostat.
My truck is a 1974 F250, I'm also looking for the spare tire holder, the one that mounts under the bed.
Would be interested in possible purchase.

 

Check with Ford, if unit is the same for many years, there may be a salvage yard in your future.