How to Replace the Radiator in a 1992 Cherokee

The most important part of a vehicles cooling system is the radiator. As hot coolant circulates through the radiator, it is cooled by outside air, pulled in by the fan, then returned through the engine's water intake. This action allows the coolant to cycle continuously through out the cooling system, pulling unwanted heat out of the engine. A damaged or clogged radiator will quickly result in an overheated engine.

Instructions

1

Loosen the negative battery terminal using the appropriate size wrench, by turning the nut in a counterclockwise direction. Remove the terminal from the battery.

2

Check to be certain that the engine and hoses are cool to the touch. If not, then allow them to cool before proceeding.

3

Locate the drain valve, on the bottom of the radiator, and place a drain pan under it. Loosen the drain valve by turning it in a counterclockwise direction, and allow the coolant to drain.

4

Locate the hose clamps and loosen them by turning the clamp screws in a counterclockwise direction. Remove the hoses. If the hoses are too tight to remove by hand, use the large pliers to twist the hose back and forth, breaking the seal. This will loosen them up.

5

Determine the type of engine in the Cherokee. If the engine is a four cylinder or a V6, remove the shroud screws and slide the shroud back toward the engine. If the engine is an in-line six, remove the shroud bolts and push the shroud over the fan.

6

Determine if the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission. If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, use the appropriate size wrench and remove the cooler lines, which are located on the back of the radiator. Plug the lines and the fittings so that no fluid escapes and so no dirt can enter them.

7

Locate the radiator mounting bolts, and remove them by turning them in a counterclockwise direction. Lift out the radiator.

8

Install the replacement radiator. Tighten the mounting bolts by turning them in a clockwise direction. Reconnect the cooler lines, if applicable.

9

Slide the shroud back into place and tighten the shroud mounting bolts, or screws, by turning them in a clockwise direction.

10

Replace the hoses and tighten the hose clamps by turning the clamp screws in a clockwise direction.

11

Close the drain valve by turning it in a clockwise direction. Refill the radiator with the proper mixture of antifreeze and water.

12

Replace the negative battery cable and tighten the nut by turning it in a clockwise direction.

13

Start the vehicle and check for any leaks.