Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Radiator Cleaning



Radiator Cleaning

Caution: NEVER spray water on a hot radiator. The resulting steam could cause personal injury.

Notice: The radiator fins are necessary for good heat transfer. Do not brush the fins. This may cause damage to the fins, reducing heat transfer.

^ Important: Remove bugs, leaves, dirt and other debris by blowing compressed air through the engine side of the radiator.

Some conditions may require the use of warm water and a mild detergent.
* Clean the A/C condenser fins.
* Clean between the A/C condenser and radiator.
* Clean the radiator cooling fins.
* Straighten any damaged cooling fins.
* Vehicles equipped with a diesel engine, clean between the charged air cooler and the A/C condenser also. Removal of the charge air cooler may be necessary to clean the fins.