How long should I leave my 09 Columbia off b4 opening the radiator cap to add coolant if it's been idling all night?? I'm not trying to go to the hospital.
You can open it at any time as long as you are careful. Depending on the weather the engine should cool sufficiently in less than 30 minutes. Check your temperature gauge to see when the temperature drops sufficiently. If you are careful you should be able to open the radiator cap while it is running or shorty after shutting it down. Again, you need to take care. Use a rag or gloves to protect yourself from any steam. Do not open the cap all the way. Open just enough for the pressure to release. Once the pressure releases you can safely finish opening the cap. Add coolant as needed.