How do I change the radiator?

WIZZAP

MEMBER
2005 DODGE NEON
98,000 MILES

I have a 2005 dodge neon other day I noticed steam coming from under the hood I popped the hood and the over flow was dripping I didn't think it was a big deal so I let it sit a few days later I open the radiator and it was very milky looking I smelled it I have more questions as I proceed ill tip for sure? I have a 2005 dodge neon other day I noticed steam coming from under the hood I popped the hood and the over flow was dripping I didn think it was a big deal so I let it sit a few days later I open the radiator and it was verey milky looking I smelled it and it was transmission fluid after search net figured out to replace my radiator. Anyway to the question how do I remove the transmission lines from bottom of radiator the look like they are just stuck into the nut of the radiator I dont wanna break the lines and cause more problems.2nd question if I unhook tranny lines is it safe to flush old radiator or do I wait to put new one in and flush I dont want to get gunk in new one if possible

1 Reply

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Removing the radiator typically means you will have to remove the fans then all the hoses and lines. Those transmission cooler lines should be connected with clamps from the factory. I have attached the replacement procedure for your reference.

Here is a helpful article on radiator replacement:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-car-radiator

Also having a milky colored coolant could be mean you have a blown head gasket. That's might be the reason it overheated.

Here is how to check for that:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

https://youtu.be/5zpNjYmmiYY

Please let me know of any questions.

Thank you.

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