Radiator: Description and Operation

WARNING: NEVER REMOVE THE RADIATOR CAP WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING. THIS COULD RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE COOLING SYSTEM, OR THE ENGINE, AND/OR PERSONAL INJURY. USE EXTREME CARE WHEN REMOVING THE RADIATOR CAP FROM A HOT SYSTEM TO AVOID A BLOWOUT OF SCALDING HOT COOLANT OR STEAM. IF POSSIBLE, WAIT FOR THE ENGINE TO COOL, THEN WRAP A THICK CLOTH AROUND THE RADIATOR CAP AND TURN IT SLOWLY TO THE FIRST STOP TO RELEASE SYSTEM PRESSURE. WHEN PRESSURE IS RELEASED, PRESS THE RADIATOR CAP DOWN (STILL USING THE CLOTH) AND TURN IT THE REST OF THE WAY FOR REMOVAL.

The radiator is crossflow-type that uses a vacuum brazed, flat aluminum core with a molded nylon radiator outlet tank and radiator inlet tank. The radiator outlet tank and radiator inlet tank are attached to the radiator core header.

The radiator has an expansion joint that can be mistaken for a separation. The joint appears as a gap or saw cut in the aluminum rails that run across the top and bottom of the radiator core. The joint is needed to allow for expansion and contraction of the radiator, and should not be eliminated. Do not mistake the function of the joint in the radiator.