2001 DODGE RAM Valve

REVERSE FLUSHING ENGINE
Drain cooling system. Remove thermostat housing
and thermostat. Install thermostat housing. Discon-
nect radiator upper hose from radiator and attach
flushing gun to hose. Disconnect radiator lower hose
from water pump and attach a lead-away hose to
water pump inlet fitting.
CAUTION: On vehicles equipped with a heater water
control valve, be sure heater control valve is closed
(heat off). This will prevent coolant flow with scale
and other deposits from entering heater core.
Connect water supply hose and air supply hose to
flushing gun. Allow engine to fill with water. When
engine is filled, apply air in short blasts, allowing
system to fill between air blasts. Continue until clean
water flows through the lead away hose.
Remove lead away hose, flushing gun, water sup-
ply hose and air supply hose. Remove thermostat
housing and install thermostat. Install thermostat
housing with a replacement gasket. Refer to Thermo-
stat Replacement. Connect radiator hoses. Refill cool-
ing system with correct antifreeze/water mixture.
Refer to Refilling the Cooling System.
CHEMICAL CLEANING
In some instances, use a radiator cleaner (Mopar
Radiator Kleen or equivalent) before flushing. This
will soften scale and other deposits and aid flushing
operation.
CAUTION: Follow manufacturers instructions when
using these products.
STANDARD PROCEDUREÐCOOLANT
SELECTION-ADDITIVES
The presence of aluminum components in the cool-
ing system requires strict corrosion protection. Main-
tain coolant at specified level with a mixture of
ethylene glycol based antifreeze and water. If coolant
becomes contaminated or looses color, drain and flush
cooling system and fill with correctly mixed solution.
CAUTION: Do not use coolant additives that are
claimed to improve engine cooling.
SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE
DESCRIPTION N´m Ft. In.
Lbs. Lbs
Belt Tensioner Pulley
3.9/5.2/5.9L
EnginesÐBolt 61 45 Ð
Belt Tensioner Pulley 8.0L
EngineÐ
Bolt 88 65 Ð
Belt Tensioner to Mounting
BracketÐ
Bolt 3.9L/5.2L/5.9L Engines 67 50 Ð
Belt Tensioner to Mounting
BracketÐ
Bolt 8.0L Engine 41 30 Ð
Block HeaterÐScrew Gas
Engines2Ð17
Block HeaterÐHex Diesel
Engine43 32 Ð
Fan Shroud to Radiator
MountingÐ
Bolts 6 Ð 50
Heater Hose Fitting at Water
PumpÐ(8.0L) 16 Ð 142
Idler Pulley MountingÐBolts
Gas Engines 61 45 Ð
Radiator MountingÐBolts 11 Ð 95
Thermal Viscous Fan to
HubÐ(Diesel)57 42 Ð
Thermostat HousingÐBolts
3.9/5.2/5.9L 23 Ð 200
Thermostat HousingÐBolts
8.0L25 Ð 220
Thermostat HousingÐBolts
Diesel24 Ð 212
Water Pump MountingÐBolts
Gas Engines 40 30 Ð
Water Pump MountingÐBolts
Diesel24 Ð 212
BR/BECOOLING 7 - 17
COOLING (Continued)

The complete assembly must be removed in order
to service either pump. However, the power steering
pump can be removed and serviced separately when
necessary.
The vacuum pump is not a serviceable component.
If diagnosis indicates a pump malfunction, the pump
must be replaced as an assembly. Do not disassemble
or attempt to repair the pump.
The combined vacuum and steering pump assem-
bly must be removed for access to either pump. How-
ever, the vacuum pump can be removed without
having to disassemble the power steering pump.
If the power steering pump requires service, simply
remove the assembly and separate the two pumps.
Refer to the pump removal and installation proce-
dures in this section.
OPERATION
Vacuum pump output is transmitted to the
HEVAC, speed control, systems through a supply
hose. The hose is connected to an outlet port on the
pump housing and uses an in-line check valve to
retain system vacuum when vehicle is not running.
Pump output ranges from a minimum of 8.5 to 25
inches vacuum.
The pump rotor and vanes are rotated by the pump
drive gear. The drive gear is operated by the cam-
shaft gear.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTINGÐVACUUM PUMP
OUTPUT
The vacuum pump supplies necessary vacuum to
components in the following systems:
²HEVAC system
²Speed Control System
A quick check to determine if the vacuum pump is
the cause of the problem in any of these systems is to
road test the vehicle and verify that all of these sys-
tems are fuctioning properly. If only one of these has
a vacuum related failure, then it is likely the vacuum
pump is not the cause.
A standard vacuum gauge can be used to check
pump output when necessary. Simply disconnect the
pump supply hose and connect a vacuum gauge to
the outlet port for testing purposes. With the engine
running, vacuum output should be a minimum of 25
inches, depending on engine speed.
DIAGNOSING LOW VACUUM OUTPUT CONDITION
If the vacuum pump is suspected of low vacuum
output, check the pump and vacuum harnesses as
follows:
(1) Visually inspect the vacuum harness for obvi-
ous failures (i.e. disconnected, cracks, breaks etc.)
(2) Disconnect the vacuum supply hose at the vac-
uum pump check valve. Connect vacuum gauge to
this valve and run engine at various throttle open-
ings. Output should be a minimum 25 inches of vac-
uum. If vacuum is consistently below 25 inches, the
vacuum pump should be replaced. If output is within
specified limits, the vacuum harness should be sus-
pected as the cause.
(3) Disconnect and isolate the vacuum supply har-
ness. Cap off open ends and apply roughly 15 inches
of vacuum to the harness. If the vacuum gauge does
not hold its reading, then there is an open in the har-
ness and it should be repaired or replaced.
(4) If the vacuum loss is still not detected at this
point, then the pump and harness are not the cause
of the low vacuum condition. Apply vacuum to the
related components of the vacuum supply system (i.e.
valves, servos, solenoids, etc.) to find the source of
the vacuum loss.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect battery negative cables.
(2) Position drain pan under power steering pump.
(3) Disconnect vacuum and steering pump hoses.
(4) Disconnect lubricating oil feed line from fitting
at underside of vacuum pump (Fig. 24).
(5) Remove lower bolt that attaches pump assem-
bly to engine block (Fig. 25).
Fig. 23 Diesel Vacuum & Power Steering Pump
Assembly
1 - VACUUM PUMP
2 - POWER STEERING PUMP
3 - PUMP ADAPTER
4 - DRIVE GEAR
BR/BEACCESSORY DRIVE 7 - 35
VACUUM PUMP - 5.9L DIESEL (Continued)

ENGINE COOLANT
THERMOSTAT - 3.9L/5.2L/5.9L
DESCRIPTION
CAUTION: Do not operate an engine without a ther-
mostat, except for servicing or testing.
The thermostat on the 3.9L, 5.2L and 5.9L gas
powered engines is located beneath the thermostat
housing at the front of the intake manifold (Fig. 15).
The thermostat is a wax pellet driven, reverse pop-
pet choke type.
Coolant leakage into the pellet container will cause
the thermostat to fail in the open position. Thermo-
stats very rarely stick. Do not attempt to free a ther-
mostat with a prying device.
The same thermostat is used for winter and sum-
mer seasons. An engine should not be operated with-
out a thermostat, except for servicing or testing.
Operating without a thermostat causes longer engine
warmup time, unreliable warmup performance,
increased exhaust emissions and crankcase condensa-
tion that can result in sludge formation.
OPERATION
The wax pellet is located in a sealed container at
the spring end of the thermostat. When heated, the
pellet expands, overcoming closing spring tension
and water pump pressure to force the valve to open.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTINGÐTHERMOSTAT
ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTICS
Allgasoline powered modelsare equipped with
On-Board Diagnostics for certain cooling system com-
ponents. Refer to On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) in the
Diagnosis section of this group for additional infor-
mation. If the powertrain control module (PCM)
detects low engine coolant temperature, it will record
a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) in the PCM mem-
ory. Do not change a thermostat for lack of heat as
indicated by the instrument panel gauge or by poor
heater performance unless a DTC is present. Refer to
the Diagnosis section of this group for other probable
causes. For other DTC numbers, (Refer to 25 - EMIS-
SIONS CONTROL - DESCRIPTION).
The DTC can also be accessed through the DRB
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diag-
nostic Procedures information for diagnostic informa-
tion and operation of the DRB scan tool.
REMOVAL
WARNING: DO NOT LOOSEN RADIATOR DRAIN-
COCK WITH SYSTEM HOT AND PRESSURIZED.
SERIOUS BURNS FROM COOLANT CAN OCCUR.
Do not waste reusable coolant. If solution is clean,
drain coolant into a clean container for reuse.
If thermostat is being replaced, be sure that
replacement is specified thermostat for vehicle model
and engine type.
Factory installed thermostat housings on 3.9L,
5.2L and 5.9L engines are installed on a gasket with
an anti-stick coating. This will aid in gasket removal
and clean-up.
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable at battery.
(2) Drain cooling system until coolant level is
below thermostat (Refer to 7 - COOLING - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE).
(3) Air Conditioned vehicles: Remove support
bracket (generator mounting bracket-to-intake mani-
fold) located near rear of generator (Fig. 16).
NOTE: On air conditioning equipped vehicles, the
generator must be partially removed.
Fig. 15 ThermostatÐ5.2L and 5.9L Gas Powered
Engines
1 - THERMOSTAT HOUSING
2 - GASKET
3 - INTAKE MANIFOLD
4 - THERMOSTAT
5 - MACHINED GROOVE
BR/BEENGINE 7 - 49

ENGINE COOLANT
THERMOSTAT - 8.0L
DESCRIPTION
CAUTION: Do not operate an engine without a ther-
mostat, except for servicing or testing.
The thermostat on all gas powered engines is
located beneath the thermostat housing at the front
of the intake manifold (Fig. 22).
The thermostat is a moveable sleeve type.
Coolant leakage into the pellet container will cause
the thermostat to fail in the open position. Thermo-
stats very rarely stick. Do not attempt to free a ther-
mostat with a prying device.
The same thermostat is used for winter and sum-
mer seasons. An engine should not be operated with-
out a thermostat, except for servicing or testing.
Operating without a thermostat causes longer engine
warmup time, unreliable warmup performance,
increased exhaust emissions and crankcase condensa-
tion that can result in sludge formation.
OPERATION
The wax pellet is located in a sealed container at
the spring end of the thermostat. When heated, the
pellet expands, overcoming closing spring tension
and water pump pressure to force the valve to open.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTINGÐTHERMOSTAT
ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTICS
Allgasoline powered modelsare equipped with
On-Board Diagnostics for certain cooling system com-
ponents. Refer to On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) in the
Diagnosis section of this group for additional infor-
mation. If the powertrain control module (PCM)
detects low engine coolant temperature, it will record
a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) in the PCM mem-
ory. Do not change a thermostat for lack of heat as
indicated by the instrument panel gauge or by poor
heater performance unless a DTC is present. Refer to
the Diagnosis section of this group for other probable
causes. For other DTC numbers, (Refer to 25 - EMIS-
SIONS CONTROL - DESCRIPTION).
The DTC can also be accessed through the DRB
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diag-
nostic Procedures information for diagnostic informa-
tion and operation of the DRB scan tool.
REMOVAL
WARNING: DO NOT LOOSEN THE RADIATOR
DRAINCOCK WITH THE SYSTEM HOT AND PRES-SURIZED. SERIOUS BURNS FROM THE COOLANT
CAN OCCUR.
Do not waste reusable coolant. If the solution is
clean, drain the coolant into a clean container for
reuse.
If the thermostat is being replaced, be sure that
the replacement is the specified thermostat for the
vehicle model and engine type.
A rubber lip-type seal with a metal shoulder is
pressed into the intake manifold beneath the thermo-
stat (Fig. 23).
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable at battery.
(2) Drain cooling system until coolant level is
below thermostat (Refer to 7 - COOLING - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE).
Fig. 22 ThermostatÐ8.0L V-10 Engine
1 - COOLANT TEMP. SENSOR (FOR PCM)
2 - HEATER SUPPLY FITTING
3 - BOLTS (6)
4 - HOUSING WITH INTEGRAL SEAL
5 - THERMOSTAT
6 - RUBBER LIP SEAL
7 - TEMP. GAUGE SENDING UNIT
7 - 52 ENGINEBR/BE

cial Seal Tool number C-3995-A with handle tool
number C-4171.
(4) Install thermostat into recessed machined
groove on intake manifold (Fig. 25).
(5) Install thermostat housing (Fig. 25).
(6) Install housing-to-intake manifold bolts.
Tighten bolts to 25 N´m (220 in. lbs.) torque.
CAUTION: Housing bolts should be tightened
evenly to prevent damage to housing and to pre-
vent leaks.
(7) Connect the wiring to both sensors.
(8) Install the upper radiator hose and hose clamp
to thermostat housing.
(9) Install support rod.
(10) Fill cooling system (Refer to 7 - COOLING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(11) Connect negative battery cable to battery.
(12) Start and warm engine. Check for leaks.
ENGINE COOLANT
THERMOSTAT - 5.9L DIESEL
DESCRIPTION
CAUTION: Do not operate an engine without a ther-
mostat, except for servicing or testing. An engine
with the thermostat removed will operate in the
radiator bypass mode, causing an overheat condi-
tion.
The thermostat of the 5.9L diesel engine is located
in the front of the cylinder head, underneath the
water outlet connector (Fig. 26).
The same thermostat is used for winter and sum-
mer seasons. An engine should not be operated with-
out a thermostat, except for servicing or testing.
Operating without a thermostat causes longer engine
warmup time, unreliable warmup performance,
increased exhaust emissions and crankcase condensa-
tion that can result in sludge formation.
OPERATION
The wax pellet is located in a sealed container at
the spring end of the thermostat. When heated, the
pellet expands, overcoming closing spring tension
and water pump pressure to force the valve to open.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTINGÐTHERMOSTAT
The cooling system used with the diesel engine
provides the extra coolant capacity and extra cooling
protection needed for higher GVWR (Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating) and GCWR (Gross Combined Weight
Rating) vehicles.This system capacity will not effect warm up or
cold weather operating characteristics if the thermo-
stat is operating properly. This is because coolant
will be held in the engine until it reaches the ther-
mostat ªsetº temperature.
Diesel engines, due to their inherent efficiency are
slower to warm up than gasoline powered engines,
and will operate at lower temperatures when the
vehicle is unloaded. Because of this, lower tempera-
ture gauge readings for diesel versus gasoline
engines may, at times be normal.
Typically, complaints of low engine coolant temper-
ature are observed as low heater output when com-
bined with cool or cold outside temperatures.
To help promote faster engine warm-up, the elec-
tric engine block heater must be used with cool or
cold outside temperatures. This will help keep the
engine coolant warm when the vehicle is parked. Use
the block heater if the outside temperature is below
4ÉC (40ÉF).Do not use the block heater if the
outside temperature is above 4ÉC (40ÉF).
A ªCold Weather Coverº is available from the parts
department through the Mopar Accessories product
line. This accessory cover is designed to block airflow
entering the radiator and engine compartment to
promote faster engine warm-up. It attaches to the
front of the vehicle at the grill opening.The cover is
Fig. 26 ThermostatÐ5.9L DieselÐTypical
1 - WATER OUTLET CONNECTOR
2 - THERMOSTAT HOUSING
3 - THERMOSTAT
7 - 54 ENGINEBR/BE
ENGINE COOLANT THERMOSTAT - 8.0L (Continued)

to be used with cool or cold temperatures only.
If used with high outside temperatures, serious
engine damage could result.Refer to the litera-
ture supplied with the cover for additional informa-
tion.
(1) To determine if the thermostat is defective, it
must be removed from the vehicle (Refer to 7 -
COOLING/ENGINE/ENGINE COOLANT THERMO-
STAT - REMOVAL).
(2) After the thermostat has been removed, exam-
ine the thermostat and inside of thermostat housing
for contaminants. If contaminants are found, the
thermostat may already be in a ªstuck openº position.
Flush the cooling system before replacing thermostat
(Refer to 7 - COOLING - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE).
(3) Place the thermostat into a container filled
with water.
(4) Place the container on a hot plate or other suit-
able heating device.
(5) Place a commercially available radiator ther-
mometer into the water.
(6) Apply heat to the water while observing the
thermostat and thermometer.
(7) When the water temperature reaches 83ÉC
(181ÉF) the thermostat should start to open (valve
will start to move). If the valve starts to move before
this temperature is reached, it is opening too early.
Replace thermostat. The thermostat should be fully
open (valve will stop moving) at 95ÉC (203ÉF). If the
valve is still moving when the water temperature
reaches 203É, it is opening too late. Replace thermo-
stat. If the valve refuses to move at any time, replace
thermostat.
REMOVAL
WARNING: DO NOT LOOSEN THE RADIATOR
DRAINCOCK WITH THE SYSTEM HOT AND PRES-
SURIZED. SERIOUS BURNS FROM THE COOLANT
CAN OCCUR.
Do not waste reusable coolant. If the solution is
clean, drain the coolant into a clean container for
reuse.
(1) Disconnect the battery negative cables.
(2) Drain cooling system until coolant level is
below thermostat (Refer to 7 - COOLING - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE).
WARNING: CONSTANT TENSION HOSE CLAMPS
ARE USED ON MOST COOLING SYSTEM HOSES.
WHEN REMOVING OR INSTALLING, USE ONLY
TOOLS DESIGNED FOR SERVICING THIS TYPE OF
CLAMP, SUCH AS SPECIAL CLAMP TOOL (NUMBER
6094). SNAP-ON CLAMP TOOL (NUMBER HPC-20)
MAY BE USED FOR LARGER CLAMPS. ALWAYSWEAR SAFETY GLASSES WHEN SERVICING CON-
STANT TENSION CLAMPS.
CAUTION: A number or letter is stamped into the
tongue of constant tension clamps. If replacement
is necessary, use only an original equipment clamp
with a matching number or letter.
(3) Remove radiator hose clamp and hose from
thermostat housing.
(4) Remove the three (3) water outlet-to-cylinder
head bolts and remove the water outlet connector
(Fig. 27).
(5) Clean the mating surfaces of the water outlet
connector and clean the thermostat seat groove at
the top of the thermostat housing (Fig. 27).
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the thermostat into the groove in the
top of the thermostat housing (Fig. 27).
(2) Install the water outlet connector and bolts.
Tighten the bolts to 24 N´m (18 ft. lbs.) torque.
(3) Install the radiator upper hose and clamp.
(4) Fill the cooling system with coolant (Refer to 7
- COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(5) Connect the battery negative cables.
(6) Start the engine and check for coolant leaks.
Run engine to check for proper thermostat operation.
Fig. 27 Thermostat Removal/Installation
1 - WATER OUTLET CONNECTOR
2 - THERMOSTAT HOUSING
3 - THERMOSTAT
BR/BEENGINE 7 - 55
ENGINE COOLANT THERMOSTAT - 5.9L DIESEL (Continued)

(10) Lift radiator straight up and out of engine
compartment. The bottom of the radiator is equipped
with two alignment dowels that fit into holes in the
lower radiator support panel (Fig. 42). Rubber bis-
cuits (insulators) are installed to these dowels. Take
care not to damage cooling fins or tubes on the radi-
ator and air conditioning condenser when removing.
CLEANING
Clean radiator fins are necessary for good heat
transfer. The radiator and air conditioning fins
should be cleaned when an accumulation of debris
has occurred. With the engine cold, apply cold water
and compressed air to the back (engine side) of the
radiator to flush the radiator and/or A/C condenser of
debris.
INSPECTION
Inspect the radiator side tanks for cracks, broken
or missing fittings also inspect the joint where the
tanks seam up to the radiator core for signs of leak-
age and/or deteriorating seals.
Inspect radiator core for corroded, bent or missing
cooling fins. Inspect the core for bent or damaged
cooling tubes.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position fan shroud over the fan blades rear-
ward towards engine.
(2) Install rubber insulators to alignment dowels
at lower part of radiator.
(3) Lower the radiator into position while guiding
the two alignment dowels into lower radiator sup-
port. Different alignment holes are provided in the
lower radiator support for each engine application.
(4) Install two upper radiator mounting bolts.
Tighten bolts to 11 N´m (95 in. lbs.) torque.
(5) Connect both radiator hoses and install hose
clamps.
(6) Connect transmission cooler lines to radiator
tank. Inspect quick connect fittings for debris and
install until an audible ªclickº is heard. Pull apart to
verify connection.
(7) Install windshield washer reservoir tank.
(8) Position fan shroud to flanges on sides of radi-
ator. Install fan shroud mounting bolts (Fig. 41).
Tighten bolts to 6 N´m (50 in. lbs.) torque.
(9) Install metal clips to top of fan shroud.
(10) Install coolant reserve/overflow tank hose to
radiator filler neck nipple.
(11) Install coolant reserve/overflow tank to fan
shroud (fits into T-slots on shroud).
(12) Install battery negative cables.
(13) Install positive battery cable to top of radia-
tor. Tighten radiator-to-battery cable mounting nuts.
(14) Position heater controls tofull heatposition.(15) Fill cooling system with coolant (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(16) Operate engine until it reaches normal tem-
perature. Check cooling system and automatic trans-
mission (if equipped) fluid levels.
RADIATOR PRESSURE CAP
DESCRIPTION
Radiators are equipped with a pressure cap, which
releases pressure at some point within a range of
97-124 kPa (14-18 psi). The pressure relief point (in
pounds) is engraved on top of cap.
The cooling system will operate at pressures
slightly above atmospheric pressure. This results in a
higher coolant boiling point allowing increased radi-
ator cooling capacity.
A rubber gasket seals radiator filler neck to pre-
vent leakage. This is done to keep system under
pressure. It also maintains vacuum during coolant
cool-down allowing coolant to return from reserve/
overflow tank.
OPERATION
The cap (Fig. 43) contains a spring-loaded pressure
relief valve that opens when system pressure reaches
release range of 97-124 kPa (14-18 psi).
A vent valve in the center of cap allows a small
coolant flow through cap when coolant is below boil-
ing temperature. The valve is completely closed when
boiling point is reached. As the coolant cools, it con-
Fig. 43 Radiator Pressure Cap and Filler NeckÐ
Typical
1 - STAINLESS-STEEL SWIVEL TOP
2 - RUBBER SEALS
3 - VENT VALVE
4 - RADIATOR TANK
5 - FILLER NECK
6 - OVERFLOW NIPPLE
7 - MAIN SPRING
8 - GASKET RETAINER
BR/BEENGINE 7 - 65
RADIATOR - 5.9L DIESEL (Continued)

tracts and creates a vacuum in the cooling system.
This causes the vacuum valve to open and coolant in
the reserve/overflow tank to be drawn through its
connecting hose into radiator. If the vacuum valve is
stuck shut, the radiator hoses will collapse on cool-
down. Clean the vent valve (Fig. 43).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTINGÐRADIATOR
CAP-TO-FILLER NECK SEAL
The pressure cap upper gasket (seal) pressure
relief can be tested by removing overflow hose from
radiator filler neck nipple. Attach hose of pressure
tester tool 7700 (or equivalent) to nipple. It will be
necessary to disconnect hose from its adapter for
filler neck. Pump air into radiator. The pressure cap
upper gasket should relieve at 69-124 kPa (10-18 psi)
and hold pressure at a minimum of 55 kPa (8 psi).
WARNING: THE WARNING WORDS ÐDO NOT
OPEN HOTÐ ON RADIATOR PRESSURE CAP, ARE
A SAFETY PRECAUTION. WHEN HOT, PRESSURE
BUILDS UP IN COOLING SYSTEM. TO PREVENT
SCALDING OR INJURY, RADIATOR CAP SHOULD
NOT BE REMOVED WHILE SYSTEM IS HOT AND/OR
UNDER PRESSURE.
Do not remove radiator cap at any timeexceptfor
the following purposes:
²Check and adjust antifreeze freeze point
²Refill system with new antifreeze
²Conducting service procedures
²Checking for vacuum leaks
WARNING: IF VEHICLE HAS BEEN RUN RECENTLY,
WAIT AT LEAST 15 MINUTES BEFORE REMOVING
RADIATOR CAP. WITH A RAG, SQUEEZE RADIATOR
UPPER HOSE TO CHECK IF SYSTEM IS UNDER
PRESSURE. PLACE A RAG OVER CAP AND WITH-
OUT PUSHING CAP DOWN, ROTATE IT COUNTER-
CLOCKWISE TO FIRST STOP. ALLOW FLUID TO
ESCAPE THROUGH THE COOLANT RESERVE/
OVERFLOW HOSE INTO RESERVE/OVERFLOW
TANK. SQUEEZE RADIATOR UPPER HOSE TO
DETERMINE WHEN PRESSURE HAS BEEN
RELEASED. WHEN COOLANT AND STEAM STOP
BEING PUSHED INTO TANK AND SYSTEM PRES-
SURE DROPS, REMOVE RADIATOR CAP COM-
PLETELY.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTINGÐRADIATOR CAP
Remove cap from radiator. Be sure that sealing
surfaces are clean. Moisten rubber gasket with water
and install cap on pressure tester 7700 or an equiv-
alent (Fig. 44).NOTE: Radiator pressure testing tools are very sen-
sitive to small air leaks, which will not cause cool-
ing system problems. A pressure cap that does not
have a history of coolant loss should not be
replaced just because it leaks slowly when tested
with this tool. Add water to tool. Turn tool upside
down and recheck pressure cap to confirm that cap
needs replacement.
Operate tester pump to bring pressure to 104 kPa
(15 psi) on gauge. If pressure cap fails to hold pres-
sure of at least 97 kPa (14 psi) replace cap.
The pressure cap may test properly while posi-
tioned on tool 7700 (or equivalent). It may not hold
pressure or vacuum when installed on radiator. If so,
inspect radiator filler neck and cap's top gasket for
damage. Also inspect for dirt or distortion that may
prevent cap from sealing properly.
CLEANING
Clean radiator pressure cap using a mild soap and
water mixture. DO NOT use any chemicals stronger
than mild soap, damage to the seal can occur .
INSPECTION
Hold cap at eye level, right side up. The vent valve
(Fig. 45) at bottom of cap should open. If rubber gas-
Fig. 44 Pressure Testing Radiator CapÐTypical
Tester
1 - PRESSURE CAP
2 - TYPICAL COOLING SYSTEM PRESSURE TESTER
7 - 66 ENGINEBR/BE
RADIATOR PRESSURE CAP (Continued)