How to Change a Radiator

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A car radiator works to cool the engine by using thermal heat exchange. Engine heat is transferred to engine coolant, routed through the thermostat and into the radiator, where it is cooled, and then circulated back into the engine. This continuous cycle keeps the car running properly by preventing the engine from over heating. A damaged radiator will be evidenced by a green coolant leak, and should be repaired immediately. It is possible to save money by doing the removal and installation of a new plastic-tank radiator yourself. Read the article below for instructions on how to change a radiator.

Steps

1. 1
   Drain the coolant.

   
   

   • Park the car on a level surface, turn off the engine and wait for the system to cool down.
   • Locate the radiator and cooling system components. The radiator is typically housed next to the top radiator tank. You can easily locate it by finding the radiator holding brackets that keep it locked in place. A radiator drain valve is positioned on the bottom of the radiator.
   • Turn the radiator drain valve counter-clockwise to open. Green coolant will begin to drip from the valve once opened, so ensure that a clean drip pan is placed under it.
   • Allow the coolant to bleed out completely before proceeding.
2. 2
   Remove all upper and lower radiator clamps and hoses.
3. 3
   Check for connections to transmission-oil and/or engine-oil coolants in the radiator. If present, remove these lines by unscrewing them or undoing the hose clamps. Once removed, cap these open-ended lines to keep foreign particles out.
4. 4
   Remove the cooling fans, if necessary. It may be possible to lift the radiator out of the engine compartment without disturbing the fan blades, in which case you do not need to disconnect the fan. If the fan will remain in place, just remove the upper cooling fan mounting bolts.
5. 5
   Inspect the radiator's surrounding area to confirm that all obstructions have been cleared. Then, lift the radiator out of the vehicle, taking notice of key mounting bracket and hole locations.
6. 6
   Compare the old and new radiators to confirm that the replacement is the correct size and type. If correct, set the new radiator in place.
7. 7
   Reinstall all hoses and fittings, and tighten up all clamps.
8. 8
   Refill the radiator with engine coolant or water. Start the car and allow the engine to warm up with the radiator cap off. Once warm, top off the coolant level until full and replace the cap.
9. 9
   Check the entire area for any coolant leaks and double check the seal on all hoses and clamps.

   
   

Tips

• Disconnect the battery terminals before beginning any repair work to prevent electrical shorts.
• Select an appropriate coolant brand and type per the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.
• Refer to your vehicle's user manual for specific instructions.

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Warnings

• Properly dispose of used coolant immediately, as it can be deadly if ingested by pets or small children.

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