Draining And Filling The Cooling System - 2.4L: Filling
The preferred method to remove air and fill the cooling system is to perform the Coolant Air Evacuation procedure using the Mopar® Essential Tools and Service Equipment (special tool #399-550000, Tool, UView Airlift™ Cooling System Refill) or equivalent. Refer to COOLANT AIR EVACUATION .
If vacuum fill equipment is not available, fill the coolant system as follows:
- Add coolant until fluid begins to leak from the bleed valve (1) located on the return line from the heater core, if equipped.
- Close the bleed screw (1).
- Continue to add coolant to the MAX level of the tank.
- Tighten the cap on the pressurized coolant bottle.
- Start the engine and run it at idle for about 2 minutes.
- Bleed the circuit by performing a quick acceleration to an engine speed of 3000 rpm followed by a gradual deceleration (every 30 seconds). The operation must be performed in order to obtain the opening of the thermostat and operation of the electric fan. The upper radiator hose will be warm to the touch.NOTE:
In the course of this operation, keep the air conditioning system switched off to avoid operation of the electric fan that is not due to heating of the coolant. If at this stage there has been a dramatic drop in the level in the tank, return the engine speed to idle and open the cap very carefully, topping up the liquid to the MAX mark; then install the cap and complete deaeration.
- Pinch off the upper radiator hose for a minimum of 30 seconds and as long as 1 minute while running the engine at 3000 rpm.NOTE:
This forces coolant through the oil cooler and will purge air trapped in the oil cooler lines.
- Allow the engine to return to idle. Shut the engine off. Allow the cooling system to settle and cool down.
- After it has cooled check that the fluid level is positioned at the MAX mark on the tank. Add coolant if required. Install the cap. Be sure the quantity of fluid added is at least equal to the quantity of fluid drained.
- Check for leaks.