Safety First:
* Disconnect the battery negative terminal before starting any work.
* Allow the engine to cool completely before working near the radiator. Hot coolant can cause severe burns.
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashes.
* Work in a well-ventilated area. Coolant is toxic.
* Have proper coolant disposal methods in place. Do not pour used coolant down the drain.
Tools You'll Need:
* Socket set (metric)
* Wrenches (metric)
* Flathead screwdriver
* Phillips head screwdriver
* Drain pan
* Radiator flush
* New radiator
* New radiator hoses (upper and lower)
* New hose clamps
* New coolant (the correct type for your engine – check your owner's manual)
* Jack and jack stands (essential for safety)
* Gloves
Procedure:
1. Drain the Coolant: Locate the radiator drain petcock (usually at the bottom of the radiator) and place your drain pan underneath. Open the petcock slowly to drain the coolant. You may also need to open the drain valve on the engine block for complete drainage.
2. Disconnect the Radiator Hoses: Carefully loosen and remove the hose clamps from the upper and lower radiator hoses. Remove the hoses from the radiator and engine. Have rags ready to absorb any remaining coolant.
3. Disconnect Electrical Connections: There may be electrical connections (for transmission cooling lines or sensors) attached to the radiator. Carefully disconnect these using the correct tools.
4. Remove the Radiator Support: This step's complexity varies depending on the DeVille's model. You may need to remove some components (like the fan shroud and fan) to access the radiator support bolts. Consult your repair manual for precise instructions. Once access is achieved, carefully remove the bolts securing the radiator support to the vehicle.
5. Remove the Radiator: Once the support is free, carefully lift the radiator out of the vehicle. It might be heavy, so get assistance if needed.
6. Install the New Radiator: Position the new radiator in place, ensuring it aligns correctly. Carefully attach the radiator support back to the vehicle.
7. Reconnect the Hoses and Electrical Connections: Attach the new (or cleaned and reused) hoses to the radiator and engine, securing them with new hose clamps. Reconnect any electrical connections.
8. Refill the Cooling System: Carefully pour the correct type and amount of coolant into the radiator. Consult your owner's manual for the exact specifications. Remember to add distilled water as needed to achieve the correct coolant/water mix.
9. Bleed the Air from the System: Start the engine and let it run until the thermostat opens. Monitor the coolant level and add more as needed. There should be a bleed valve (usually on the engine) to assist in purging air from the system. Refer to your repair manual on how to correctly bleed the system.
10. Check for Leaks: After running the engine, thoroughly inspect all connections for leaks.
11. Reconnect the Battery: Once you are confident there are no leaks and the system is properly bled, reconnect the battery's negative terminal.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A factory service manual is invaluable for this repair. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your vehicle.
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, it is best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
This guide provides a general overview. Always prioritize safety and consult your vehicle's repair manual for precise instructions before attempting this repair. Improperly performed repairs can lead to serious damage or injury.
