pleas help how do i replace a radiator in my 2005 ford freestar van {black}:crying:
While I applaud your determination to try to do this job yourself, if you can't do basic reasearch, then you probably should take it to a mechanic instead.
That being said. You need tools, I can't tell you which ones but the general assortment of screwdriver and socket should be enough. Maybe a money wrench... All rad removal process are generally the same, you replace due to a crack orr rust buildup or maybe it's just a shit rad and you want a better aftermarket one. Whatever the case make sure that your replacement rad fits your car. Double if not triple check first that the radiator matches or "fits" if you have an aftermarket. After then you can start working. Also document everything if this is your first time as it will help with the re-assembly later.
- Jack up the car and remove all plastics and annoyances out if the way. E-brake on since I'm assuming you don't have a lift. Keep all the screws and loose bits in a bag or something so you don't lose them.
- Find the bleeder on the rad (could be located near one of the two big pipes at the bottom of the car, if not there check around the top, and if all else it is hidden on the back somewhere) once found turn counter clockwise to drain the rad, be sure to have a drain pan prepared and ready to catch the incoming fluid.
- After mostly drained, then you can start to take apart hoses and anything else that connects to the rad. The metal pipes are most likely the PS lines and those Should be capped off as to not drain too much PS fluid Should be anywhere from 2-10 bolts typically as well as a couple clips maybe and possibly some electrical connections. Whatever the case document everything.
- After you see that everything is disconnected shimmy out the rad as the rad itself is most likely going to have some bushings or clips imbedded into itself so be careful. Then after it is out compare it once again to your new rad.
- If it all checks out then install in reverse order that you took it out in and be sure you are not missing anything along the way.
- Fill with coolant and top off PS fluid. Then find a procedure on how to burp your coolant system as every car is different on how it works.
- Turn on the car and check if it runs fine now!
- It works? Great pat yourself on the back and reward yourself with a beer, good job. You are one step closer to being independent.
Notes: where I ment by money wrench is an assortment of wrenches as well.
The bleeder port is typically brightly colored red or yellow, but could also be black unfortunately.
When starting to remove rad, instead of just getting rid of everything you see go systematically, as to not work on too much at once.
If you finished the job, CONGRATULATIONS!!!
But again if all of this seems like a lot of work, that's because it is and for doing it the first time it can be a bit much. So if it is, don't worry about taking it to a mechanic to get it professionally done as the time to do it first time is almost if not equivalent to a mechanic getting paid to do the job in less time. But if you are really up for the task, I wish you the best of luck!