Here's a general outline of the process. Remember, this is not a complete guide and should be supplemented by a repair manual:
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Coolant is corrosive.
* Gather Tools: You'll need wrenches (various sizes), screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), a drain pan, a new radiator (the correct one for your Neon!), new coolant, possibly new hoses and clamps (inspect the old ones carefully – replace if damaged or deteriorated), and possibly a funnel.
* Coolant Drain: Locate the radiator drain petcock (usually at the bottom of the radiator) and the engine block drain plug. Place the drain pan underneath and carefully open both to drain the coolant completely. Let it cool completely if it's still hot.
2. Removal of the Old Radiator:
* Disconnect Hoses: Carefully disconnect the upper and lower radiator hoses. Have rags handy to absorb spilled coolant.
* Disconnect Transmission Cooler Lines (if applicable): The automatic transmission cooler lines might be integrated into the radiator. Disconnect these carefully; some require specialized tools.
* Disconnect Fan Assembly (if applicable): The electric cooling fan may be mounted to the radiator. Disconnect the electrical connector and remove the fan shroud.
* Remove Radiator Support: This may involve removing some bolts or fasteners holding the radiator support in place. Again, your repair manual will show you exactly how to do this.
* Remove the Old Radiator: Carefully lift out the old radiator. It may be heavy, especially when full of coolant.
3. Installation of the New Radiator:
* Install Radiator Support (if removed): Reverse the steps you took to remove the support.
* Install the New Radiator: Carefully position the new radiator in the support. Make sure it sits flush and correctly aligns with all mounting points.
* Secure the Radiator: Tighten all mounting bolts or fasteners securely, but avoid over-tightening.
* Reconnect Fan Assembly (if applicable): Reattach the fan shroud and reconnect the electrical connector.
* Reconnect Transmission Cooler Lines (if applicable): Reconnect the transmission cooler lines carefully, ensuring a secure connection.
* Reconnect Hoses: Carefully connect the upper and lower radiator hoses, ensuring they are securely clamped.
4. Refill and Bleed:
* Refill with Coolant: Refer to your owner's manual for the correct type and amount of coolant. Use a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Add coolant until the radiator is full.
* Bleed the System: This is crucial to remove air pockets that can impede cooling. The method varies depending on the car; your repair manual will detail the procedure. It might involve running the engine with the radiator cap off (carefully!) until coolant flows smoothly and air bubbles stop coming out. Always follow the instructions in your repair manual for bleeding the cooling system.
* Check for Leaks: After filling, carefully inspect all connections for leaks. Run the engine for a short while to check for leaks.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: Absolutely essential.
* Coolant Type: Use the correct type of coolant specified in your owner's manual. Mixing different types can be damaging.
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable performing this repair, take your car to a qualified mechanic. A botched radiator replacement can lead to serious engine damage.
This is a simplified overview. The actual process can be more complex depending on the specific model of your 1995 Dodge Neon. Always refer to a repair manual for precise instructions and diagrams relevant to your vehicle. Safety is paramount – if in doubt, consult a professional.
