Cooling system won’t burp

[s2per]

I just replaced the water pump and t-stat on our ‘06 Boxster Tip. I followed the instructions from Wayne’s book and various other recommendations for filling the system. I was to borrow a vacuum aided filler and it seemed to work well. There appears to be only one 986-style bleeder valve on my car in the trunk.

However, after 6 attempts to get air out of the system, here’s what I have:
No leaks
Heater blows hot air.
The left hose going to the radiators gets hot.
The right hose from the rads and the New 160 degree thermostat are cold.
Fans never turn on.
Tank In trunk remains full.

I have a suggestion from a mechanic friend to put a pressure tester on the tank cap, pressurize and then open the bleeder. But I’m beginning to think I may have to access the radiators and manually get the air out.

I’m open to suggestions!

[Dmitry at Pelican Parts]

I would also pose this question to our 986 Forum community, they'll be able to give you some solid advice as well.

[manbridge 74]

I’ve done so many I never even bother with the vacuum fill device. Fill it with coolant and open bleeder, go on a test drive making sure to free rev a few times to 5K and back to idle until you feel heat, back to shop and top off coolant, let it cool and top off again. Close bleeder and warm to temp until fans come on. Usually let it sit over night and then exercise the bleeder a few times and final top off. The 5K to idle bit can be repeated anywhere during process if needed, helps with getting air bubbles to bleeder.

[s2per]

Thank Dmitry, I’ll try posting there. And at this point Jeff, I may try the test drive and check for warm hoses when I get back. (Up to now, I’ve had the car on my lift.)

[manbridge 74]

It’s the higher rpm and back to idle that moves the air. Plus you’ve already got heat so I think you will see the last bit of air dissipate quickly.