Cooling System: Description and Operation

DESCRIPTION - COOLING SYSTEM
The cooling system components consist of a radiator, electric fan motors, shroud, pressure cap, thermostat, transmission oil cooler, water pump, hoses, clamps, coolant, and a coolant reserve system to complete the circuit.

DESCRIPTION - HOSE CLAMPS
The cooling system uses spring type hose clamps. If a spring type clamp replacement is necessary, replace with the original Mopar equipment spring type clamp.





CAUTION: A number or letter is stamped into the tongue of constant tension clamps. If replacement is necessary, use only a original equipment clamp with matching number or letter.


OPERATION - COOLING SYSTEM
The engine cooling systems primary purpose is to maintain engine temperature in a range that will provide satisfactory engine performance and emission levels under all expected driving conditions. It also provides hot water (coolant) for heater performance and cooling for automatic transmission oil. It does this by transferring heat from engine metal to coolant, moving this heated coolant to the radiator, and then transferring this heat to the ambient air.
^ When engine is cold: thermostat is closed, cooling system has no flow through the radiator. The coolant bypass flows through the engine only.
^ When engine is warm: thermostat is open, cooling system has bypass flow and coolant flow through radiator.





Coolant flow circuits for the 2.4L and 3.3/3.8L engines are shown.


OPERATION - HOSE CLAMPS





The spring type hose clamp applies constant tension on a hose connection. To remove a spring type hose clamp, use Special Tool 6094 or equivalent, constant tension clamp pliers to compress the hose clamp.