FixVault
Home › Chevrolet › 2002 › Prizm Base, Standard › Repair and Diagnosis › Engine Mechanical › Cooling Fan › Engine Cooling System › Repair Instructions › Radiator Replacement › Installation Procedure

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the radiator and cooling fan assembly into the vehicle.
    NOTE: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.
  2. Use the 2 upper bolts in order to secure the radiator.

    Tighten 

    Tighten the radiator bolts to 13 N.m (9 ft lbs).

  3. Secure the A/C condenser bracket bolts to the radiator.

    Tighten 

    Tighten the A/C condenser bracket bolts to 10 N.m (89 in lbs).

  4. Use the following steps in order to connect the overflow hose (1) to the radiator filler neck:
    1. 4.1. Position the hose over the filler neck flares.
    2. 4.2. Use a hose clamp in order to secure the hose.
    Fig 1: Connecting Overflow Hose
    G01711711Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  5. Use the following steps in order to connect the radiator inlet hose to the radiator:
    1. 5.1. Position the hose over the radiator flares.
    2. 5.2. Use a hose clamp in order to secure the hose.
  6. Reconnect the cooling fan electrical connectors.
  7. Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle.
  8. Install the transmission fluid cooler hoses to the radiator on vehicles with automatic transmission.
  9. Use hose clamps in order to secure the hoses.
  10. Connect the radiator outlet hose to the radiator.
  11. Position the hose over the radiator flares.

    Use a hose clamp in order to secure the hose.

  12. Install the right and left engine splash shields.
  13. Lower the vehicle.
  14. Use an approved coolant in order to fill the radiator. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System .
  15. Fill the radiator to the base of the radiator filler neck.

    Important:  Watch for a potential overheating condition while the engine is operating with the radiator cap off.

  16. Start and run the engine until the coolant is at operating temperature.
  17. The coolant is at operating temperature when the following conditions exist:
    • The hoses feel warm.
    • The coolant is moving in the radiator.
  18. Add coolant to the radiator until the coolant level reaches the radiator filler neck.
  19. Install the radiator cap.
  20. Inspect the following components for leaks:
    • The radiator
    • The coolant reservoir
    • The coolant pipe connections
    • The hose connections
  21. Tighten any loose connections as necessary.
  22. Install the radiator cap to the radiator.
  23. Inspect the transmission fluid level, on vehicles with automatic transmission.
About FixVault