1. Preparation:
- Safety first! Park your car on a flat surface, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool down completely.
- Disconnect the battery to avoid electrical issues during the process.
2. Coolant Draining:
- Locate the coolant drain plug on the radiator.
- Place a large container underneath to collect the drained coolant.
- Open the drain plug and allow all the coolant to drain out.
- Tighten the drain plug securely once the coolant has drained.
3. Removing the Radiator:
- Locate the upper and lower radiator hoses attached to the radiator.
- Loosen the hose clamps with appropriate tools and carefully remove the hoses from the radiator connections.
- If the radiator is held by brackets or bolts, remove them using suitable wrenches or tools.
- Once free from hoses and brackets, lift the old radiator out of the vehicle.
4. Installing the New Radiator:
- Position the new radiator into place, ensuring proper alignment.
- Reattach the mounting brackets or bolts if applicable.
- Reconnect the upper and lower radiator hoses by tightening the hose clamps securely.
5. Refill Coolant:
- Locate the coolant reservoir, usually indicated by a coolant symbol.
- Pour a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water into the reservoir until it reaches the proper level indicated by the markings on the reservoir.
6. Bleeding the System:
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes with the heater turned on full blast. This process helps remove any trapped air from the cooling system.
- Keep monitoring the coolant level, and if it drops, add more coolant to the reservoir until the proper level is maintained.
7. Testing and Final Touches:
- Test-drive the vehicle and observe the temperature gauge to ensure the engine is cooling properly.
- Recheck the coolant level after a short drive and top up if required.
NOTE: These steps are a general guide. Radiator replacement procedures can vary depending on the precise Punto Grande model and year, so it's advisable to consult your vehicle's repair manual or seek assistance from a professional mechanic if you're not confident performing this task.
