How to Replace a Radiator in a 2000 Jeep Cherokee

When the radiator in your Jeep Cherokee needs to be replaced, it can seem like a huge undertaking. The myriad of hoses and emissions equipment on the vehicle can cover up what is, in reality, just a basic radiator-supplied cooling system. Jeep recommends that the coolant level on the Cherokee be checked at every fill up and that the system be drained, flushed and refilled every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first.

Instructions

Allow the engine to cool completely before working on it.

Pop the hood and remove the negative battery cable by turning the nut counterclockwise with a wrench then pulling the clamp from the battery post.

Place a drain pan under the radiator and loosen the drain petcock, located at the bottom of the radiator, by turning it clockwise with a pair of pliers. Remove the radiator cap and let the coolant flow out into the drain pan.

Remove the screws on the radiator hose clamps with a flat head screwdriver. Remove the radiator hoses. Use pliers to twist the hoses loose if necessary.

Note what type of engine is in the vehicle. On four cylinder and V6 models, remove the screws from the fan shroud and move it back towards the engine. On 258 in-line six models, after you remove the fan shroud, push it over the fan.

Use a wrench to remove the transmission cooler lines that screw into the rear of the radiator if the Jeep is equipped with an automatic transmission. Make sure you cover the ends of the lines with tape or a rag to prevent fluid loss.

Turn the radiator mount bolts counterclockwise and remove them with the wrench. Pull the radiator up and out of the vehicle.

Slide the new radiator into place, being careful not to bang it against the fan. Reattach the cooler lines with the wrench, if necessary.

Replace the fan shroud and tighten the mounting bolts with the wrench.

Reattach the hoses and clamps and tighten them with the screwdriver.

Retighten the drain petcock with the pliers and refill the radiator with coolant. If the old coolant in the drain pan is clean, you can re-use it.

Place the negative battery clamp onto the negative battery post and tighten the clamp with the wrench.

Check for any leaks when the vehicle is running.