How to Replace a Radiator on a 1997 Chevy Blazer

The radiator on your 1997 Chevy Blazer is connected not only to the rest of the engine cooling system but the transmission if the vehicle is an automatic. This is the most recognizable component of the cooling system and needs to be replaced if the coolant is not properly flowing through it. You must change this part, when the engine is cool, because the coolant within the system gets extremely hot during normal operation.

Instructions

Removal

1

Disconnect the battery of your Chevy Blazer at the negative cable and terminal with a wrench.

2

Open the radiator cap in the engine compartment--the engine must be cool at this time--then remove the drain plug at the the bottom of the radiator. Drain the engine coolant into a large container.

3

Remove the clamps from the upper air intake duct with a screwdriver and disconnect the duct from the air cleaner assembly.

4

Unscrew and remove the upper fan shroud with the screwdriver.

5

Disconnect the cooler lines from the radiator if the Blazer has an automatic transmission and plug the lines with rubber plugs to prevent contamination. Disconnect both radiator hoses, loosening the clamps with the screwdriver.

6

Depress the plastic tabs for the lower fan shroud with a screwdriver to remove the shroud.

7

Pull the radiator up and out of the engine compartment.

Installation

8

Install the radiator into the engine compartment then the lower fan shroud, making sure the shroud's tabs engage.

9

Reconnect the radiator hoses and cooling lines to the radiator. Replace the hoses and clamps if they are worn out in any way.

10

Reinstall the upper fan shroud and the air intake duct with their clamps/screws.

11

Refill the radiator with a fresh mix of water and antifreeze. Use the original coolant only if you are sure it is clean.

12

Reconnect the negative battery cable with the wrench.