How to Replace a Radiator in a Geo Tracker

The purpose of the radiator in your Geo Tracker is to regulate the temperature of the water that keeps your engine cool. It's important to keep the radiator in good condition, but sometimes radiators wear out over time. If you are mechanically inclined, you may be able to change the radiator yourself. Here's how to replace the radiator in a 1999 Geo Tracker; however, the process is essentially the same for any year.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wrench
• Screwdriver
• 2 resealable containers
• Replacement hoses, if necessary
• Replacement radiator
• Distilled water
• Engine coolant

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable before you begin the process of removing the radiator in your Geo Tracker. Open the radiator and drain the fluids into a resealable container.

2. If your Geo Tracker has an automatic transmission, put a container under the transmission cooler line fittings and disconnect the cooler lines from the radiator. Be sure to plug the ends of the cooler lines so no contaminants can enter the transmission system.

3. Remove the cooling fan and the radiator shroud and disconnect and hoses that you haven't yet disconnected. Remove the bolts holding the radiator in place, and lift the radiator out of the engine compartment.

4. Put the new radiator in position, install the bolts carefully with your fingers to make sure the radiator is lined up properly and tighten them securely. Inspect the hoses, and if they're worn, they should be replaced.

5. Connect the hoses, radiator shroud and cooling fan, and reattach the cooler lines if your Geo has an automatic transmission.

6. Fill the cooling system with a mixture of half distilled water and half engine coolant.

7. Reconnect the negative battery cable. Start the engine and inspect the radiator for leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to drain all engine fluids into resealable containers and dispose of them properly by taking them to a garage or to your neighborhood hazardous waste disposal center
• To avoid scalds, wear gloves and protective clothing, and always be sure the engine is cool before replacing the radiator.

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