I just replaced the lower intake manifold gaskets on my 95 Blazer, and replaced the thermostat while i was at it. I dont think I drained all of the coolant out prior to removing the manifold. Long story short, I replaced everything and filled up the coolant in the radiator and took it for a short drive before I noticed the temp gauge was building toward apprx. 220. I put in a 195 thermostat. I returned back home and let the truck cool down, then i started the bleeding process. A few SMALL bubbles came up, and i repeated this process about 4 times. The truck still gets to about 220-230 before I shut it off.
So my question is, am I doing the bleeding process right?? It shouldnt be this hard, and I know I put the thermostat in the right way (spring toward the engine)

 

hm...........................................anybo dy...?

 

These engines are a pain to bleed. You must get the front end as high as reasonably possible with the passenger side slightly higher than the driver side. With the radiator cap off, run it up in temperature then let it cool down. As it cools down, keep the radiator topped up with coolant. Repeat until you are comfortable.

 

I install a clean out T in the heater hoses that return coolant to the engine. as the engine is warming up, I crack the cap and watch the bubbles. when i am only getting coolant out I close the cap tight.

Often there will be a big air pocket in the heater core.

No promises, but it works for me.

 

thanks guys. i will try this. I lifted it yesterday as high as i could, i think i lost some coolant too but as i looked inside the radiator there was a little steam coming out not much though. i also looked at the exhaust and it had a little faint amount of smoke coming out, could i possibly have blown a head gasket at only 220 degrees? keeping in mind i havent run the engine since march.