ENGINE
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE COOLING
SYSTEM
Establish what driving condition caused the cooling
system complaint. The problem may be caused by an
abnormal load on the system such as the following:
prolonged idle, very high ambient temperature, slight
tail wind at idle, slow traffic speed, traffic jam, high
speed, steep grade.
DRIVING TECHNIQUES
To avoid overheating the cooling system:
(1) Idle with A/C off when temperature gauge is at
end of normal range.
(2) Do not increase engine speed for more air flow
and coolant flow because the electric motor fan sys-
tems are not responsive to engine RPM. The added
cooling from higher coolant flow rate is more than
offset by increased heat rejection (engine heat added
to coolant).
TRAILER TOWING
Consult the owner's manual under Trailer Towing
and do not exceed specified limits.
VISUAL INSPECTION
If the cooling system problem is not caused by a
driving condition, perform a visual inspection to
determine if there was a recent service or accident
repair, including the following:
²Loose/damaged water pump drive belt
²Incorrect cooling system refilling (trapped air or
low level)
²Brakes possibly dragging
²Damaged hoses
²Loose/damaged hose clamps
²Damaged/incorrect engine thermostat
²Damaged cooling fan motor, fan blade and fan
shroud
²Damaged head gasket
²Damaged water pump
²Damaged radiator
²Damaged coolant recovery system
²Damaged heater core
²Open/shorted electrical circuits
If the visual inspection reveals none of the above
as cause for a cooling system complaint, refer to the
following diagnostic charts.
COOLING SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS CHART
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
PRESSURE CAP IS BLOWING
OFF STEAM AND/OR COOLANT.
TEMPERATURE GAUGE READING
MAY BE ABOVE NORMAL BUT
NOT HIGH. COOLANT LEVEL MAY
BE HIGH IN COOLANT RESERVE/
OVERFLOW TANK.1. Pressure relief valve in radiator
cap is defective, or was not
properly seated.1. Check condition of radiator cap
and cap seal. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING/ENGINE/RADIATOR
PRESSURE CAP - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING) Replace cap as
necessary.
2. Incorrect cap was installed. 2. Replace cap as necessary.
3. Incorrect coolant mixture. 3. Check concentration level of the
coolant. (Refer to 7 - COOLING/
ENGINE/COOLANT - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING) Adjust the ethylene
glycol-to-water ratio as required.
COOLANT LOSS TO THE
GROUND WITHOUT PRESSURE
CAP BLOWOFF. GAUGE IS
READING HIGH OR HOT.1. Coolant leaks in radiator, cooling
system hoses, water pump or
engine.1. Pressure test and repair as
necessary. (Refer to 7 - COOLING -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING)
RSENGINE7-15
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CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
DETONATION OR PRE-IGNITION
(NOT CAUSED BY IGNITION
SYSTEM). GAUGE MAY NOT BE
READING HIGH.1. Engine overheating. 1. Check reason for overheating
and repair as necessary.
2. Freeze point of coolant not
correct. Mixture too concentrated or
too diluted.2. Check concentration level of the
coolant. (Refer to 7 - COOLING/
ENGINE/COOLANT - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING) Adjust the ethylene
glycol-to-water ratio as required.
3. Incorrect cooling system
pressure cap.3. Install correct pressure cap.
HOSE(S) COLLAPSE AS ENGINE
COOLS DOWN.1. Vacuum created in cooling
system on engine cool-down is not
being relieved through coolant
recovery system.1. (a) Pressure cap relief valve
stuck. (Refer to 7 - COOLING/
ENGINE/RADIATOR PRESSURE
CAP - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING)
Replace as necessary.
(b) Hose between the radiator and
overflow container is plugged or
pinched. Clean and repair as
necessary.
(c) Vent at coolant reserve/overflow
container is plugged. Clean vent
and repair as necessary.
(d) Reserve/overflow container is
internally blocked. Clean and repair
as necessary.
INADEQUATE AIR CONDITIONER
PERFORMANCE (COOLING
SYSTEM SUSPECTED).1. Radiator and/or A/C condenser is
restricted, obstructed, or dirty
(insects, leaves, etc.).1. Remove restriction and/or clean
as necessary.
2. Electrical radiator fan not
operating when A/C is operated.2. For test procedure (Refer to
appropriate Diagnostic Information).
Repair as necessary.
3. Engine is overheating (heat may
be transferred from radiator to A/C
condenser). High underhood
temperatures due to engine
overheating may also transfer heat
to A/C components.3. Correct overheating condition.
4. All models are equipped with air
seals at the radiator and/or A/C
condenser. If these seals are
missing or damaged, not enough
air flow will be pulled through the
radiator and A/C condenser.4. Check for missing or damaged air
seals and repair as necessary.
INADEQUATE HEATER
PERFORMANCE.1. Check for a Diagnostic trouble
code (DTC).1. For procedures, (Refer to
appropriate Diagnostic Information).
Repair as necessary.
2. Coolant level low. 2. (Refer to 7 - COOLING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE) Repair
as necessary.
7 - 16 ENGINERS
ENGINE (Continued)
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ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
DESCRIPTION
The engine block heater is available as an optional
accessory on all models. The heater is operated by
ordinary house current (110 Volt A.C.) through a
power cord located behind the radiator grille. This
provides easier engine starting and faster warm-up
when vehicle is operated in areas having extremely
low temperatures. The heater is mounted in a core
hole (in place of a core hole plug) in the engine block,
with the heating element immersed in coolant.
OPERATION
The block heater element is submerged in the cool-
ing system's coolant. When electrical power (110 volt
A.C.) is applied to the element, it creates heat. This
heat is transferred to the engine coolant. This pro-
vides easier engine starting and faster warm-up
when vehicle is operated in areas having extremely
low temperatures.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - ENGINE BLOCK
HEATER TESTING
If unit does not operate, trouble can be in either
the power cord or the heater element. Test power
cord for continuity with a 110-volt voltmeter or 110-
volt test light; test heater element continuity with an
ohmmeter or 12-volt test light.
REMOVAL
(1) Drain coolant from radiator and cylinder block.
(Refer to 7 - COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(2) Disconnect the power cord plug from heater.
(3) Loosen screw in center of heater. Remove the
heater assembly.
INSTALLATION
(1) Clean block core hole and heater seat.
(2) Insert heater assembly with element loop posi-
tionedupward.
(3) With heater seated, tighten center screw
securely to assure a positive seal.
(4) Install power cord plug to heater.
(5) Fill cooling system with coolant to the proper
level. (Refer to 7 - COOLING - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE)
ENGINE COOLANT
TEMPERATURE SENSOR - 2.4L
DESCRIPTION
The engine coolant temperature sensor threads
into the top of the thermostat housing (Fig. 3). New
sensors have sealant applied to the threads.
REMOVAL
WARNING: HOT, PRESSURIZED COOLANT CAN
CAUSE INJURY BY SCALDING. COOLING SYSTEM
MUST BE PARTIALLY DRAINED BEFORE REMOV-
ING THE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR.
(1) Drain the cooling system below thermostat
level. (Refer to 7 - COOLING - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE)
(2) Disconnect coolant temperature sensor electri-
cal connector.
(3) Remove coolant temperature sensor (Fig. 3).
INSTALLATION
(1) Install coolant temperature sensor (Fig. 3).
Tighten sensor to 7 N´m (60 in. lbs.).
(2) Connect electrical connector to sensor.
(3) Fill cooling system. (Refer to 7 - COOLING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE)
Fig. 3 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor - 2.4L
1 - MAP SENSOR
2 - COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR
RSENGINE7-21
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RADIATOR DRAINCOCK
REMOVAL
CAUTION: Use of pliers on draincock is not recom-
mended. Damage may occur to radiator or drain-
cock.
NOTE: It is not necessary to remove draincock dur-
ing a routine coolant drain.
(1) Drain the cooling system. (Refer to 7 - COOL-
ING - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(2) Open the draincock by turning it counterclock-
wise until it stops.
(3) Turn the draincock back (clockwise) 1/8 turn.
(4) Pull the draincock (Fig. 16) from the radiator
tank.
INSTALLATION
(1) Align draincock stem to radiator tank opening.
(2) Push draincock into the radiator tank opening.
(3) Tighten the draincock by turning clockwise
until it stops.
(4) Fill the cooling system. (Refer to 7 - COOLING
- STANDARD PROCEDURE)
RADIATOR PRESSURE CAP
DESCRIPTION
The cooling system pressure cap is located on the
radiator. The cap construction includes; stainless
steel swivel top, rubber seals, and retainer, main
spring, and a spring loaded valve (Fig. 17).
OPERATION
The cooling system is equipped with a pressure cap
that releases excessive pressure; maintaining a range
of 97-124 kPa (14-18 psi).
The cooling system will operate at higher than
atmospheric pressure. The higher pressure raises the
coolant boiling point thus, allowing increased radia-
tor cooling capacity.
There is also a vent valve in the center of the cap.
This valve also opens when coolant is cooling and
contracting, allowing the coolant to return to cooling
system from coolant reserve system tank by vacuum
through a connecting hose.If valve is stuck shut,
or the coolant recovery hose is pinched, the
radiator hoses will be collapsed on cool down.
Clean the vent valve (Fig. 17) and inspect cool-
ant recovery hose routing, to ensure proper
sealing when boiling point is reached.
The gasket in the cap seals the filler neck, so that
vacuum can be maintained, allowing coolant to be
drawn back into the radiator from the reserve tank.
If the gasket is dirty or damaged, a vacuum
may not be achieved, resulting is loss of coolant
and eventual overheating due to low coolant
level in radiator and engine.
Fig. 16 Draincock
1 - RADIATOR TANK
2 - DRAINCOCK
Fig. 17 Cooling System Pressure Cap Filler Neck
1 - OVERFLOW NIPPLE
2 - MAIN SPRING
3 - GASKET RETAINER
4 - STAINLESS-STEEL SWIVEL TOP
5 - RUBBER SEALS
6 - VENT VALVE
7 - RADIATOR
8 - FILLER NECK
RSENGINE7-27
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(4) Install the radiator upper support crossmem-
ber. (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTERIOR/GRILLE OPEN-
ING REINFORCEMENT - INSTALLATION)
(5) Install the upper radiator mounts to the cross-
member bolts, if removed. Tighten to 8 N´m (70 in.
lbs.).
(6) Install the radiator upper hose to the support
clip (2.4L engine).
RADIATOR FAN RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The radiator fan relay is a solid state type and is
located on the front bumper reinforcment (Fig. 22).
Refer to WIRING DIAGRAMS for a circuit sche-
matic.
OPERATION
The solid state radiator fan relay is controlled by
the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) by way of a
Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) signal. The relay con-
trol circuit supplies a 12 volt signal to the PCM. The
PCM then pulses the ground circuit to achieve fan on
time. The relay provides a voltage to the fan motors
which is proportional to the pulse width it receives
from the PCM. The duty cycle ranges from 30% for
low speed operation, then ramps-up to 100% for high
speed operation. This fan control system provides
infinitely variable fan speeds, allowing for improved
fan noise, A/C performance, better engine cooling,
and additional vehicle power.
To control operation of the relay, the PCM looks at
inputs from:
²Engine coolant temperature
²A/C pressure transducer
²Ambient temperature from the body controller
²Vehicle speed
²Transmission oil temperature
The PCM uses these inputs to determine when the
fan should operate and at what speed. For further
information on fan operation, (Refer to 7 - COOL-
ING/ENGINE/RADIATOR FAN - OPERATION).
REMOVAL
(1) Open hood.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Remove the radiator crossmember to front fas-
cia closure panel.
(4) Disconnect the relay electrical connector (Fig.
22).(5) Remove the rivet attaching the relay to the
front bumper beam (Fig. 22).
(6) Remove the relay.
INSTALLATION
CAUTION: The relay mounting location is designed
to dissipate heat. Ensure the relay is securely
attached to prevent relay ªthermalº shutdown and
relay damage, resulting in possible engine over-
heating.
(1) Position relay and install a new rivet (Fig. 22).
(2) Connect electrical connector to relay.
(3) Install closure panel and attaching screws.
(4) Connect negative cable to battery.
Fig. 22 Radiator Fan Relay
1 - FRONT FASCIA
2 - FAN RELAY
3 - RIVET
4 - A/C CONDENSER (FRONT SIDE)
RSENGINE7-31
RADIATOR FAN (Continued)
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COOLING 2.5L TURBO DIESEL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
COOLING 2.5L TURBO DIESEL
DESCRIPTION - COOLING SYSTEM.........1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COOLING
SYSTEM.............................1
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COOLING
SYSTEM LEAK TEST....................6
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COOLING
SYSTEM FLOW CHECK.................7
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COOLING
SYSTEM AERATION....................7CLEANING.............................7
INSPECTION...........................7
SPECIFICATIONS
SPECIFICATIONS - TORQUE.............8
SPECIFICATIONS - COOLING SYSTEM
CAPACITY............................8
ACCESSORY DRIVE.......................9
ENGINE...............................14
COOLING 2.5L TURBO DIESEL
DESCRIPTION - COOLING SYSTEM
The cooling system regulates engine operating tem-
perature. It allows the engine to reach normal oper-
ating temperature as quickly as possible, maintains
normal operating temperature and prevents over-
heating.
The cooling system also provides a means of heat-
ing the passenger compartment. The cooling system
is pressurized and uses a centrifugal water pump to
circulate coolant throughout the system. A separate
and remotely mounted, pressurized coolant tank
using a pressure/vent cap is used.
COOLING SYSTEM COMPONENTS
The cooling system consists of:
²Charge Air Cooler
²Electric Cooling Fans
²A aluminum-core radiator with plastic side
tanks
²A separate pressurized coolant tank
²A pressure/vent cap on the coolant tank
²Fan shroud
²Thermostat
²Coolant
²Low coolant warning lamp
²Coolant temperature gauge
²Water pump
²Hoses and hose clamps
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COOLING SYSTEM
Establish what driving conditions caused the com-
plaint. Abnormal loads on the cooling system such as
the following may be the cause:
(1) PROLONGED IDLE, VERY HIGH AMBIENT
TEMPERATURE, SLIGHT TAIL WIND AT IDLE,
SLOW TRAFFIC, TRAFFIC JAMS, HIGH SPEED
OR STEEP GRADES.
Driving techniques that avoid overheating are:
²Idle with A/C off when temperature gauge is at
end of normal range.
²Increasing engine speed for more air flow is rec-
ommended.
(2) TRAILER TOWING:
Consult Trailer Towing section of owners manual.
Do not exceed limits.
(3) RECENT SERVICE OR ACCIDENT REPAIR:
Determine if any recent service has been per-
formed on vehicle that may effect cooling system.
This may be:
²Engine adjustments (incorrect timing)
²Slipping engine accessory drive belt
²Brakes (possibly dragging)
²Changed parts (incorrect water pump)
²Reconditioned radiator or cooling system refill-
ing (possibly under filled or air trapped in system).
NOTE: If investigation reveals none of the previous
items as a cause for an engine overheating com-
plaint, refer to following Cooling System Diagnosis
charts.
These charts are to be used as a quick-reference
only.
RGCOOLING 2.5L TURBO DIESEL7a-1
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COOLING SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS-DIESEL ENGINE
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
TEMPERATURE GAUGE
READS LOW1. Diesel engines, due to their
inherent effiency are slower to warm
up than gasoline powered engines,
and will operate at lower
temperatures when the vehicle is
unloaded.1. The low gauge reading may
be normal. Refer to thermostats
in the manual text for
information. See Thermostat
Diagnosis-Diesel Engine.
2. Is the temperature gauge
connected to the temperature gauge
coolant sensor on the engine?2. Check, the engine
temperature sensor connector
in the engine compartment.
3. Is the temperature gauge
operating OK?3. Check gauge operation.
Repair as necessary.
4. Coolant level low in cold ambient
temperatures accompanied with poor
heater performance.4. Check coolant level in the
coolant tank. Inspect system for
leaks. Repair leaks as
necessary. Refer to the Coolant
section for WARNINGS and
precautions before removing
the pressure cap.
5. Improper operation of internal
heater doors or heater controls.5. Inspect heater and repair as
necessary. Refer to Heating
and Air Conditioning for
procedures.
TEMPERATURE GAUGE
READS HIGH. COOLANT
MAY OR MAY NOT BE
LOST OR LEAKING FROM
COOLING SYSTEM1. Trailer is being towed, a steep hill
is being climbed, vehicle is operated
in slow moving traffic, or engine is
being idled with very high ambient
(outside) temperature and the air
conditioning is on. Higher altitudes
could aggravate these conditions.1. This may be a temporary
condition and repair is not
necessary. Turn off the air
conditioning and attempt to
drive the vehicle without any of
the previous conditions.
Observe the temperature
gauge. The gauge should return
to the normal range. If the
gauge does not return to
normal range, determine the
cause for the overheating and
repair.
2. Temperature gauge reading
incorrectly.2. Check gauge. Refer to I/P
group.
3. Coolant low in coolant tank and
radiator.3. Check for coolant leaks and
repair as necessary.
4. Pressure cap not installed tightly.
If cap is loose, boiling point of
coolant will be lowered.4. Tighten cap.
5. Poor seals at pressure/vent cap. 5. (a) Check condition of cap
and cap seals. (b) Check
condition of coolant tank filler
neck. Make sure it does not
leak pressure.
7a - 2 COOLING 2.5L TURBO DIESELRG
COOLING 2.5L TURBO DIESEL (Continued)
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CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTION
INADEQUATE AIR
CONDITIONER
PERFORMANCE
(COOLING SYSTEM
SUSPECTED)1. Radiator and/or A/C condensor is
restricted, obstructed or dirty
(insects, leaves, etc.)1. Remove restriction or clean
debris from radiator or A/C
condensor.
2. Engine is overheating (heat may
be transferred from radiator to A/C
condensor. High underhood
temperatures due to engine
overheating may also transfer heat
to A/C condensor).2. Correct overheating
condition.
3. The cooling system is equipped
with air seals at the radiator and/or
A/C condensor. If these seals are
missing or damaged, not enough air
flow will be pulled through the
radiator and A/C condensor.3. Check for missing or
damaged air seals. Repair as
necessary.
INADEQUATE HEATER
PERFORMANCE. MAY BE
ACCOMPANIED BY LOW
GAUGE READING1. 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.1. The lower gauge reading
may be normal.
2. Coolant level low. 2. Pressure test cooling system.
Repair leaks as necessary.
3. Obstruction in heater hose fitting
at engine.3. Remove heater hoses and
check for obstructions. Repair
as necessary.
4. Heater hose kinked. 4. Locate kinked area. Repair
as necessary.
5. Water pump is not pumping water
to heater core. When the engine is
fully warmed up, both heater hoses
should be hot to the touch. If only
one of the hoses is hot the water
pump may not be operating correctly.
The accessory drive belt may also
be slipping causing poor water pump
operation.5. Refer to water pumps in this
group. Repair as necessary. If a
slipping belt is detected, refer to
Engine Accessory Drive Belts in
this group. Repair as
necessary.
HEAT ODOR 1. Various heat shields are used at
certain drive line components. One
or more of these shields may be
missing.1. Locate missing shields.
Repair or replace as necessary.
2. Is temerature gauge reading
above the normal range?2. Refer to the previous
Temperature Gauge Reads
High in these Diagnostic
Charts. Repair as necessary.
3. Is the Cooling fan operating
correctly?3. Refer to Cooling System Fan
in this group for diagnosis.
Repair as necessary.
RGCOOLING 2.5L TURBO DIESEL7a-5
COOLING 2.5L TURBO DIESEL (Continued)
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