Cooling Systems: Radiator: Removal

WARNING: DO NOT remove the cylinder block plug or the radiator draincock with the system hot and under pressure because serious burns from coolant can occur.

Disconnect negative cable from battery.
Drain the cooling system. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE .
Remove the radiator upper hose from the radiator.
Disconnect the radiator fan motor electrical connector.
Remove the radiator fan assembly. Refer to RADIATOR FAN .

NOTE: When the transaxle cooler lines are removed from the rolled-groove type fittings at the cooler and transaxle, damage to the inner wall of hose will occur. To prevent potential leakage, the cooler hoses and clamps must be replaced.

Fig 1: Identifying Transmission Cooler Hoses-To-Cooler

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

Disconnect and cap automatic transmission hoses (if equipped). (Fig 1).
Remove the radiator lower hose.
Remove radiator upper isolator bracket mounting screws. (Fig 2). Disconnect the engine block heater wire (if equipped).

Fig 2: Removing/Installing Radiator Mounting
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
Remove the A/C condenser attaching screws located at the front of the radiator (if equipped), then lean condenser forward. (Fig 3).

Fig 3: Identifying A/C Condenser-To-Radiator Mounting Screws
Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

NOTE: It is not necessary to discharge the air conditioning system to remove the radiator.

Radiator can now be lifted free from engine compartment. Care should be taken not to damage radiator cooling fins or water tubes during removal.