How to Replace Coolant Inlet Tube 01-10 Dodge Grand Caravan

Difficulty: Intermediate · About 90 min · Dodge Caravan

Replace the lower coolant inlet tube on a 2001–2010 Dodge Grand Caravan, accessing it through the wheel well and refilling the cooling system after installing the new tube and seal.

Steps

1. Drain the coolant

   Start with the engine cool and place a drain pan under the radiator. Attach a short hose to the drain outlet, open the valve, and remove the radiator cap to let coolant drain in a controlled way.

2. Remove the wheel and inner liner

   Loosen the wheel nuts on the ground, raise and support the vehicle, then remove the wheel. Release the wheel-well clips and bumper-edge screws to move the liner aside and expose the coolant tube.

3. Remove the old inlet tube

   Move the radiator hose clamp back and carefully free the hose, catching remaining coolant. Remove the tube bracket and housing bolts, withdraw the tube, and clean the mating area without damaging it.

4. Install the replacement tube

   Coat the new O-ring lightly with clean engine oil and seat it on the replacement tube. Insert the tube fully, start its housing and bracket bolts by hand, then tighten them evenly to specification and reconnect the hose.

5. Reinstall the wheel-well liner and wheel

   Return both liner sections to position and secure their clips and bumper-edge screws. Refit the wheel, start the lug nuts by hand, lower the vehicle, and torque the nuts to the vehicle's specification.

6. Refill and check the cooling system

   Close the radiator drain and refill with the specified coolant mixture, then bleed the system according to the vehicle procedure. Run the front and rear heaters, check for leaks, and recheck the level after the engine cools.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.