Does someone have the steps to refill the radiator on the R56 MC? I had to remove the radiator (minor accident) and I am to the point of refilling the radiator. I tried refilling using the overflow tank and it does not drain. I have seen steps to vent the hoses when refilling the radiator on the 1st generation Cooper only. I have ordered a shop manual but it has not arrived yet.

 

My Jeep has a similar set up and you have to start the engine while filling it up. That should suck in the coolant but of course I'm only assuming it would work the same way. Therefore:

***small print***
If it doesn't start sucking after a few minutes, shut down the engine, you don't want to overheat it.

 

with bmws you dont start the engine (bad idea when the radiator is empty) but you do turn on the heater (set to 91f). this should start sucking the coolant from the radiator.

 

Pull the hose connection under the passenger side front and let it drain. To refill there's a plastic vent screw you need to loosen before filling the reservoir. Then just fill the reservoir until coolant flows out the vent screw tighten it and your done.

Hose connection:



Vent Screw(it's recessed and has a Phillips head)



And the official instructions:

 

Thanks. This is exactly what I was looking for.