Chrysler Repair: problems bleeding cooling system, professional auto mechanic, upper radiator hose

Question
Roland,
I have a 1996 LHS 3.5L engine and I am having a problem bleeding the cooling system. So far to date I have changed the engine temp sensor (fans not running), thermostat (overheating), upper thermostat housing (bleeder constantly seeping fluid),upper radiator hose and water pump (leaking at o ring, and bearing worn, changed by a professional auto mechanic). To bleed the system I am filling the coolant reservoir and then opening the bleeder, I have to massage the upper hose to get fluid started through the bleeder. There appears to always be a mix of fluid and air. Ater I get more fluid than air I fill the reservoir, install the cap and start the engine. At running temp I will reopen the bleeder plug and what comes out will be a line of fluid then a fluid and air mix. It will never seem to be just fluid. After a few minuted he fans will stop and all the comes out the bleeder is steam. What else do I need to do or check. Which direction is fluid flow into bottom of radiator and out top?
Thanks,
Joe

Answer
While you are doing the squeezing on the upper hose with the bleeder open are you keeping the reservoir filled at all times? If not then you will allow air to re-enter the system. The water flow is out the top radiator hose from the thermostat housing and into the radiator, then the coolant returns to the engine via the bottom hose. Any sign of leaks into the oil or onto the ground? If none, then you should be able to fill the system. Do you have a hose on the bleeder valve that drops the fluid into a pail? If not, that too could be a pathway for air to return to the system. Have the tip of the hose submerged into the bucket also as an air stop.

Roland