Product Test: Fluid Service Technologies’ The Cooling Flusher

Flush service isn’t new, but it is a proven moneymaker. The key to profitable oil, transmission or cooling system flush service is productivity and simple operation. SSGM tested Fluid Service Technologies’ appropriately named “The Cooling Flusher” on a Honda Civic with an older but sound cooling system. The machine is essentially a clear resin cylinder that’s wheel mounted, and is powered by shop air. Connections are through the upper radiator hose by way of a supplied assortment of fittings and quick release connectors. Hookup took about two minutes and is simple enough that little training should be required to get new staff accustomed to the procedure. Air pressure drives out old coolant and replaces it with new, a process visible through the clear reservoir of The Cooling Flusher. The process is automatic, including shut off, and technicians don’t need to stand by or monitor the unit as it works, freeing them for other value-added tasks.

The reverse flow service can be performed without the vehicle running, allowing the service in bays without exhaust extraction, and minimizing the safety issues around hot hoses and scalding fluid. The Cooling Flusher occupies a little more than a square foot of floor space, and comes with relatively large wheels, allowing easy mobility over rough surfaces. It’s a feature that, when combined with the pneumatic operation, allows flush service outside, or wherever an air line can be run.

The test Civic is a classic example of a late model sloping nose import, with the radiator cap and tank below the level of the system’s highest point, which is at the water outlet. The customary bleed screw is provided, but after the flush procedure, “burping” the system showed no evidence of trapped air, suggesting that the pumping action is powerful. The manufacturer doesn’t recommend eliminating the venting procedure, but it’s nice to know that the air is pushed through the system. The test flush took less than 15 minutes hood to hood, and could probably be done in 10 minutes. Perhaps the best feature of “The Cooling Flusher”, which the firm describes as a “mid priced unit” is the simplicity of the equipment. Resin parts and seals are easily accessible and readily available, although Fluid Service Technologies claims few problems in the field. The clear tank could also be a strong selling feature, as consumers can watch the old coolant coming out and the new going in.

The Cooling Flusher is a low-profile, easy to use machine that should have good profit potential for shops that can maximize the productivity potential of a fully automatic, easy to use machine.

Fluid Service Technologies