I've recently acquired a '97 Subaru Impreza Outback and need to partially drain the coolant so I can replace the upper radiator hose without a big fluid mess.

 

Unfortunately, I have yet to order a service manual and at first quick glance was unable to locate a drain plug/valve.

 

I'd hate to remove the lower radiator hose just to partially drain the radiator. Is there a drain plug/valve for the '97 Impreza Outback radiator? Is it towards the bottom, on the left/right?

if the rad is similar to my 94 legacys,stand in front,facing car an down on your left side of the rad there should be the drain valve.on some there's a small hose attached to it,make sure you aim good;)

 

hope it helped.

Yep, drain cock is on same side as the top rad hose, only right at the bottom. Often on the side of the rad.

 

Get under the car, remove the protective plastic shield and you will have good access.

 

Mount the new hose on the engine first and fill as far as possible through the top hose. Then connect it to the rad and top up from there. This method avoids large air pockets forming.

A '97 Impreza has the drain plug on the car's left side (the splash guard is not in the way). The owner's manual has a picture of it.

excellent! I'll go peek underneath the car when i get a chance later today (or this week). Thanks for the help!.