’98 AVALON (USA/CANADA)−U
202
Look at the see −through coolant reser-
voir when the engine is cold. The cool-
ant level is satisfactory if it is between
the ”FULL” and ”LOW” lines on the
reservoir. If the level is low, add ethyl-
ene −glycol type coolant.
The coolant level in the reservoir will vary
with engine temperature. However, if the
level is on or below the ”LOW” line, add
coolant. Bring the level up to the ”FULL”
line.
Use only ethylene− glycol type coolant.
See information in the next column.
If the coolant level drops within a short
time after replenishing, there may be a
leak in the system. Visually check the
radiator, hoses, radiator cap and drain
cock and water pump.
If you can find no leak, have your Toyota
dealer test the cap pressure and check
for leaks in the cooling system.
CAUTION
To prevent burning yourself, do not
remove the radiator cap when the en-
gine is hot.
Coolant type selection
Your coolant must contain ethylene −glycol
antifreeze. In addition to preventing freez-
ing and subsequent damage to the engine,
this will also prevent corrosion. Further
supplemental inhibitors or additives are
neither needed nor recommended.
Read the antifreeze container for informa-
tion on freeze protection. Follow the
manufacturer’s directions for how much to
mix with water. The total capacity of the
cooling system is given in Part 8. We
recommend 50 % solution be used for
your Toyota, or a sufficient quantity to
provide protection to about −35 C ( −31 F).
NOTICE
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or
plain water alone.
Checking brake fluid
To check the fluid level, simply look at
the see −through reservoir. The level
should be between the ”MAX” and
”MIN” lines on the reservoir.
It is normal for the brake fluid level to go
down slightly as the brake pads wear. So
be sure to keep the reservoir filled.
If the reservoir needs frequent refi lling, it
may indicate a serious mechanical prob-
lem.
Checking the engine coolant
level
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’98 AVALON (USA/CANADA)−U
203
If the level is low, add SAE J1703 or
FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 brake fluid to
the brake reservoir.
Remove and replace the reservoir cover
by hand. Fill the brake fluid to the dotted
line. This brings the fluid to the correct
level when you put the cover back on.
Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once
opened, brake fluid absorbs moisture from
the air, and excess moisture can cause a
dangerous loss of braking.
CAUTION
Take care when filling the reservoir
because brake fluid can harm your
eyes and damage painted surfaces. If
fluid gets in your eyes, flush your
eyes with clean water.
NOTICE
If you spill the fluid, be sure to wash
it off with water to prevent it from
damaging the parts or paint.
Checking power steering fluid
If hot O.K.
If cold O.K.
CloseOpen
If hot add
If cold add
Check the fluid level through the reser-
voir. If necessary, add automatic trans-
mission fluid DEXRON −II or −III.
If the vehicle has been driven around 80
km/h (50 mph) for 20 minutes (a little
more in frigid temperatures), the fluid is
hot (60 C—80 C or 140 F—175 F). You
may also check the level when the fluid
is cold (about room temperature,
10 C—30 C or 50 F—85 F) if the engine
has not been run for about five hours. Clean all dirt from outside of the reservoir
tank and look at the fluid level. If the fluid
is cold, the level should be in the ”COLD”
range. Similarly, if it is hot, the fluid level
should be in the ”HOT” range. If the level
is at the low side of either range, add
automatic transmission fluid DEXRON
−II
or −III to bring the level within the range.
To remove the filler cap, turn it counter-
clockwise and lift up. To reinstall it, turn
it clockwise. After replacing the filler cap,
visually check the steering box case, vane
pump and hose connections for leaks or
damage.
CAUTION
The reservoir tank may be hot so be
careful not to burn yourself.
NOTICE
Avoid overfilling, or the power steer-
ing could be damaged.
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