F-150 Mechanical Explorer

Cooling & Hose Map

How Coolant Moves

Coolant runs in a loop: the pump pushes it through the engine, the thermostat decides when it can reach the radiator, and airflow across the radiator carries the heat away.

Coolant flow

Coolant loop

Radiator
Water pump
Engine block
Cylinder heads
Thermostat
Radiator

Cabin heat branch

Engine
Heater hose
Heater core
Return hose
Pump

Expansion

System pressure
Reservoir
Back into the system on cooldown

Hose Map

Every line type is shown separately so they can't be confused

Select a line to see where it runs and what happens if it is left off.

Never open a hot cooling system — pressurised coolant causes serious burns. Coolant specification and system capacity read Verification Required until confirmed; see Fluids.