How to Replace the Radiator in a 2001 Chevy Silverado

Iskandar Blogger 6:34 AM

The radiator in your Chevy Silverado's engine is a very important part of the engine cooling system. If the engine coolant is not properly flowing through the radiator, your truck will overheat very quickly. You need to replace a bad radiator in your engine as soon as possible. Removing and replacing the radiator will vary slightly for the 2001 model depending on what type of transmission the truck is equipped with.

Instructions

Removal

    1

    Remove the radiator's drain hose from its support at the bottom, then loosen the drain fitting (it may need pliers) and drain the engine coolant into a large container.

    2

    Disconnect the upper radiator hose from the radiator and fan shroud, loosening its hose clamps with pliers.

    3

    Detach the air intake duct and resonator, loosening the hose clamps with a screwdriver.

    4

    Disconnect all lines and hoses from the radiator; this includes the coolant surge tank hose, the vent pipe hose and the lower radiator hose.

    5

    Disconnect the oil and transmission cooler lines if equipped, unsnapping the plastic collar and retaining clips. This is only needed if the truck has automatic transmission.

    6

    Unbolt and remove the cooling fan and its upper fan shroud with a wrench. Pull up the upper fan shroud and release it from the radiator's retaining tabs.

    7

    Remove the radiator's mounting bolts and lift it out of the engine.

Installation

    8

    Lower and install the replacement radiator into the engine, making sure it seats properly in the lower saddles and its upper brackets are secure. Apply the mounting bolts.

    9

    Install the lower fan shroud, then the fan and its upper shroud with its mounting bolts.

    10

    Reconnect all lines and hoses to the radiator. Use the hose clamps with the pliers on the radiator hoses. Connect the retaining clips to the cooler line fittings, snap the lines into place and install the plastic collars on the fittings.

    11

    Reconnect the air intake duct and resonator with its hose clamps.

    12

    Refill the engine coolant. If the old coolant is dirty, replace it with a fresh mix of water and antifreeze.