OEM 2001 Dodge Dakota Radiator

2001 Dodge Dakota Radiator Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Service and Repair a Radiator on 2001 Dodge Dakota?

  A: Before working on the radiator, unhook the battery negative cable, empty the cooling system and make sure not to take out the cylinder block drain plugs or open the radiator draincock when the system is hot and pressurized. Always use the special clamp tool (number 6094) or the Snap-On clamp tool (number HPC-20) to service constant tension hose clamps and make sure you wear safety glasses. Get rid of the hose clamps and hoses attached to the radiator, separate the hose going to the coolant reserve/overflow tank and connect the washer bottle's electrical connector to the hose as well. Remove both of the upper fan shroud mounting screws and raise the assembly out of the engine area. If you have one, remove the connection between the transmission oil cooler and the lines and between the electric cooling fan motor and its connector. Unscrew the top of the radiator and move the radiator up away from the car, with the cooling fins removed from contact with other parts to prevent anything from getting damaged. Before starting the engine, aim a hole-shaped nozzle at the radiator's backside and blow air or spray cold water to remove any dirt. Check if the radiator cooling fins are damaged or worn out so they are not bent or compressed, since this can lower the heat exchange and make the engine run hotter. Review the plastic end tanks for any damage, cracks or leaks and check the radiator neck for bending. When installing, put the radiator so that the two bottom pins of the tanks fit into their holes on the lower radiator support. Attach and tighten the radiator bolts to 23 Nm (200 inch lbs.), link the transmission oil cooler hose if found and hook up the fan motor wire to the harness. Set the top fan shroud around the lower fan shroud and radiator, screw them down and link the radiator hoses and coolant tank hose back together. Lastly, place back the battery negative wire, pour in the radiator fluid, start the engine, let it warm up and check for leaks.