How Do You Drain the Radiator on a 1999 Dodge Caravan?
The 1999 Dodge Caravan's motor is a traditional water-cooled internal-combustion engine. It's cooled by fluid (antifreeze and water) that circulates between the engine and the radiator. A water pump circulates the water and antifreeze, or coolant, upward through the engine block and out the top to the radiator, where it dissipates the engine heat into the atmosphere. It's important to drain the radiator on your 1999 Dodge Caravan at least once every other year to rinse out any rust or debris buildup that might be circulating along with your Caravan's coolant. The process is fairly simple; you can save money by doing it yourself. You'll start by draining the coolant that's in the radiator.
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Instructions
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Position the 1999 Dodge Caravan in a place where you can work on the front of the car with plenty of room. A level driveway is an ideal location for this. Shift the Caravan's transmission into "park" and shut off the engine. Set the parking brake. Remove the keys from the ignition.
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Release the hood latch and open the hood. Allow the engine to cool for 1/2 hour.
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Turn the radiator cap 1/4 turn to the left. Press down and continue to turn. Pull the cap off the radiator.
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Lie on your back and position yourself underneath the radiator, which is mounted behind the grille at the front of your Caravan. Locate the radiator drain, which is at the rear of the radiator on the passenger side. Place the drain pan underneath the plug. Open the plug with pliers. Allow the coolant inside to drain into the radiator.
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Close the drain plug.
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Tips & Warnings
Dispose of used radiator fluid properly.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit radiator humor image by John Sfondilias from Fotolia.com
