I do have the reservoir tank removed and I am filling through the radiator cap. I am going to reinstall it and see if that makes a difference.

 

You probably need to purge trapped air. The dealer uses a vacuum system to purge the air. If you didn't drain the block, it may take less coolant than you think.

If you don't have the purge equipment, Install the coolant recovery tank, fill the radiator. Fill the recovery tank half way. Don't put the radiator cap on. Run the vehicle till the thermostat opens (see some coolant) movement in the radiator. Keep topping up the radiator as you go along. Once the thermostat opens and its run for a minute, shut off the jeep, top off the radiator an replace the cap. Check the recovery bottle level and let cool. From then on only add coolant to the recovery tank. Monitor the level, don't let it go dry. It may take a few engine cycles to settle down.

 

Thanks for the info.

 

Just wanted to add a bit more info for those that may try this job in the future. I have a 2012 Grand Cherokee with the 3.6L motor.

1. Definitely do not run without the reservoir tank on. After I put the tank back in my spill proof funnel worked fine. I was able to tell when the thermostat opened up. I thought just pinching off the hose would be enough to run it without the tank installed.

2. The capacity of this system is 10.4 quarts and only about 7 quarts come out when the radiator and reservoir tank are drained. About 3.5 quarts from each one. So only about 2/3 of the capacity can be exchanged.

3. Trying to get the other 1/3 will be pretty difficult. The drain plugs for the engine block are a fairly large hexagonal Allen type. I would guess something around 15mm or 9/16". These also seem like they will be pretty hard to remove because there is limited space to work in.

All in all, I will get this done at the dealer or a location that uses the correct HOAT coolant. This way there will be a near 100% fluid exchange.

 

Dealers typically don't bother with the block drains, they have a suction tool that removes most if not all coolant and flushing water.