How to Replace the Radiator in a 1995 Nissan Quest

The radiator in your 1995 Nissan Quest minivan is made of a hardened plastic outer body and aluminum interior core. The radiator holds an equal mix of water and antifreeze (coolant) that flows through the honey-comb-shaped chambers, which in turn is cooled by intake airflow during vehicle operation. The coolant then enters the engine block and reduces the engine temperature. It's important that the radiator is serviced and regularly maintained to prevent excessive corrosion and rust from forming within the unit.

Instructions

1

Drive the minivan onto the vehicle ramps, and set the parking brake for added safety. Brace the rear wheels using wheel chocks or bricks to prevent it from rolling during the repair.

2

Open the hood, and disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent from being shocked. Remove the radiator fill cap to relieve the pressure from within the hoses and radiator.

3

Place the clean bucket directly under the radiator drain plug to capture the coolant. The drain plug is located on the bottom-left side of the radiator, when facing the engine. Unscrew the drain plug bolt using a socket wrench, and drain all of the coolant (antifreeze) from the radiator.

4

Unscrew the several bolts that attach the shroud to the radiator. The shroud is a plastic half-dome safety shield that covers the top portion of the radiator fan.

5

Disconnect the upper radiator hoses going to the thermostat housing cover. Remove only the radiator side of the hose, which is held in place by a hose clamp. Then, disconnect the lower hose leading to the water pump intake, which is also held in place by a hose clamp.

6

Slide underneath the van and remove the lower radiator mounting bolts located on either side of the radiator using a three-eighths-inch socket and ratchet. These bolts are located near the bottom edge and secure the radiator to the frame. Then, remove the upper mounting bolts, and carefully take out the radiator.

7

Install the replacement radiator in place and insert the upper mounting bolts by hand to hold it in place. Insert and securely tighten the two lower bolts using the ratchet wrench, and then tighten the upper mounting bolts.

8

Reconnect the lower and upper radiator hoses and secure them in place using the hose clamps. Install the safety shield, and secure it in place using its mounting bolts.

9

Pour the drained coolant back into the radiator, or refill using a 50/50 mixture of water and antifreeze. Reconnect the battery, and start the engine. Allow it to idle for a few minutes to flush out any trapped air within the cooling system.

10

Remove the wheel chocks, and safely drive the van off of the vehicle ramps. Thoroughly inspect the new radiator and hose connections for leaks.