How to Find the Coolant Hose in a 1998 Cavalier

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Make sure the front wheels are pointing straight ahead and the ignition key is in the "Lock" or "Off" position.
Step 2

Disconnect the ground battery cable, using a wrench.
Step 3

Remove the air bag fuse from the fuse block under the dashboard on the driver side.
Step 4

Remove the panel from under the steering column, using a Phillips screwdriver.
Step 5

Locate the yellow two-way connector near the base of the steering column. Disengage the small plastic pin (connector position assurance, or CPA) securing the two halves of the yellow connector, then unplug the yellow connector. See Resources for a link to a picture of the CPA and yellow connector, if necessary.

Step 1

Take the upper radiator shroud cover off, using a ratchet and socket.
Step 2

Place a catch pan under the radiator.
Step 3

Open the radiator drain valve, and remove at least 3 quarts of coolant. Close the drain valve.
Step 4

Remove the clamps at each end of the upper radiator hose, using a pair of slip joint pliers.
Step 5

Twist and pull the upper radiator hose from the radiator fitting. Then twist and pull the other end of the radiator hose, and remove it from the vehicle.
Step 6

Install the new upper radiator hose and secure it with the clamps, using the slip joint pliers.
Step 7

Install the upper radiator shroud cover, using the ratchet and socket.
Step 8

Open the radiator cap and refill the cooling system with GM Goodwrench DEX-COOL or similar antifreeze containing silicate. Return the cap.
Step 9

Reinstall the upper radiator shroud cover, using the ratchet and socket.

Step 1

Shift the transmission to neutral.
Step 2

Raise the front of your vehicle using a floor jack, then support the vehicle on two jack stands. Chock the rear wheels, and apply the parking brakes.
Step 3

Place a catch pan under the radiator.
Step 4

Open the radiator drain valve, and remove the coolant from the radiator. Close the drain valve.
Step 5

Remove the clamps at each end of the lower radiator hose, using a pair of slip joint pliers.
Step 6

Twist and pull the lower radiator hose from the radiator fitting. Then twist and pull the other end of the radiator hose, and remove it from the vehicle.
Step 7

Install the new lower radiator hose and secure it with the clamps, using the slip joint pliers.
Step 8

Lower the vehicle.
Step 9

Open the radiator cap and refill the cooling system with GM Goodwrench DEX-COOL or similar antifreeze containing silicate. Return the cap.

Step 1

Connect the yellow two-way connector, and secure it with the small plastic pin (CPA).
Step 2

Install the panel under the steering column with the Phillips screwdriver.
Step 3

Reinstall the air bag fuse to the fuse block.
Step 4

Reconnect the ground battery cable.
Step 5

Turn the ignition key to the "Run" position, and wait for the air bag warning light to flash seven times. Then turn the ignition key to the "Off" position and remove it.

References