97 SOHC V6 Radiator Replacement - Help Needed

[4jbshere]

Hi All,

I searched, but did not find a "how to" thread for replacing the radiator on a 97 EB V6 SOHC. It looks pretty straight forward, but I've heard you have to pull the fan clutch, which requires some special tool? Is that right?

Is there anything tricky that I need to know about this project?

If there is a thread or you have directions on how to replace it would be huge help.

Thanks JB

 

[rb142]

You need a big wrench (32mm I think -- a big adjustable wrench works) to remove the fan/clutch assembly. The trick is that you need to hold the water pump pulley that it screws onto in place while doing it. And it will be tight. The special tool fits over the pulley bolts to hold the pulley. Do a search for fan clutch tool and you will see what it is. You can also wedge a screwdriver or pry bar between the bolt heads to hold the pulley, much like the special tool. Leave the belt on at that point to help hold the pulley. The rest of the job is pretty easy.

 

[koda2000]

if your year's anything like my 2000 V8, regarding the radiator, you don't have to remove the fan to change the rad. i used Joe Dirt's STICKY on radiator replacement and found it very helpful. it's not a real hard job, just tricky. the hardest part was getting all the plastic clips to line up. it might be a little different for the V6, but i bet you can use much of the info.

 

[bill06447]

Put a wrench on the fan clutch flats-the 32mm one-and with the belt still on the pulley smack the wrench sharply with a hammer. Most times the shock will loosen it so you can spin it off.

Bill

 

[2000StreetRod]

backup wrench

Make sure to use a backup wrench when tightening the automatic transmission cooler hose connections.

 

[koda2000]

if your year's anything like my 2000 V8, regarding the radiator, you don't have to remove the fan to change the rad. i used Joe Dirt's STICKY on radiator replacement and found it very helpful. it's not a real hard job, just tricky. the hardest part was getting all the plastic clips to line up. it might be a little different for the V6, but i bet you can use much of the info.

Edit: link added
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=332584

 

[4jbshere]

Thanks for the info on how to remove the fan clutch, but is this actually necessary to replace the radiator?

I think the process is different between the V8 & V6. Can anyone confirm that?

Thanks

JB

 

[2000StreetRod]

fan shroud

As I recall the fan shroud can be pushed back toward the block and the radiator removed without removing the fan blade or clutch.
Hood lifts, side steps & radiator

The V6 radiator is much easier to replace than the V8.

 

[koda2000]

As I recall the fan shroud can be pushed back toward the block and the radiator removed without removing the fan blade or clutch.
Hood lifts, side steps & radiator

The V6 radiator is much easier to replace than the V8.

i just used a bungee cord to hold the shroud out of my way.

 

[drdoom]

True, you don't need to mess with the fan.

 

[4jbshere]

Thanks for the info. As soon as it warms up a touch in Chicago I will give this a try.

 

[X~FACTOR]

That clutch fan is a ***** to remove!!!

 

[bill06447]

True, you don't need to mess with the fan.

Every one says this, until they accidentally bump the radiator against a fan blade putting the new one in...if you leave the fan in the truck, drape a towel over it.

Bill

 

[4jbshere]

Thanks Bill - good advice on the towel.

Any special tips on the "clips"? I've heard those are a pain.

JB

 

[jimbalaya]

Thanks Bill - good advice on the towel.

Any special tips on the "clips"? I've heard those are a pain.

JB

I know it's been several months since you asked about the clips, but wanted to let you know in case you haven't done the job yet - i also have a 97 SOHC and just replaced my radiator yesterday, there are no clips at all! just the two radiator bolts, the two fan shroud bolts, the two transmission cooling lines and one bolt anchoring the transmission lines to the radiator at the bottom.

Thanks to Koda for posting the link to Joe Dirt's sticky on his radiator replacement [and to Joe Dirt for doing the actual work!] - although Joe's pics are of his V8 with all the clips, it helped me a great deal in terms of knowing what to look for. thanks guys.