OEM 2001 Toyota RAV4 Radiator

2001 Toyota RAV4 Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to remove and reinstall a radiator on 2001 Toyota RAV4?

  A: The first step to remove the radiator involves draining the engine coolant followed by removing the radiator grille by uninstalling 4 screws and two clips. Unscrew the four screws of the front end panel before you disconnect the hood lock by removing 3 bolts along with the wire from the clamp and separate the upper radiator hose. The upper radiator support needs 5 bolts removal before proceeding to take out the LH engine under cover radiator reservoir and both No. 1 and No. 2 cooling fans and support. Automatic transmission models require removal of the lower radiator hose while disconnecting both oil cooler hoses and ECT switch connector until removal of the radiator with its upper and lower supports. The process of disassembly requires drain plug and O-ring removal along with the assembly of Special Service Tool: 09230-01010 to set stopper bolts for dimension "B" at 0.2 to 0.3 mm (0.008 to 0.012 inch). Strike the bracket wall with the lock plating tool while uncorking the plates and lightly hit the bracket to detach tank components and O-rings. Automatic transmission models require the obligate loosening of two nuts to separate lower tank oil cooler pipes before removing the associated two O-rings. New O-rings are installed onto the oil cooler followed by torqueing 2 nuts to 12 Nm (120 kgf-cm, 10 ft. lbs.). The LH and RH cooler pipes must then be installed with a torque of 14.7 Nm (150 kgf-cm, 11 ft. lbs.). The lock plate needs examination for damage because deformation prevents the radiator from being recaulked more than two times before needing a replacement. Install new O-rings followed by tanks during assembly while doing a thorough check for any foreign material inside the lock plate groove. Thus complete this stage by tapping the lock plate using a soft-faced hammer to eliminate any gaps. Use Special Service Tools 09230-01010 and 09231-14010 to adjust the stopper bolt until you reach dimension "B" of 8.4 mm (0.331 inch). During the caulking process check that height (H) ranges from 8.45 to 8.85 mm (0.3327 to 0.3484 inch). Use Special Service Tool: 09230-01010 to test the radiator for leaks by applying pressure of 177 kPa (1.8 kgf/cm2, 26 psi) while submerging the radiator in water after plugging the drain plug and inlet and outlet pipes with the new O-ring securely installed and the drain plug tightened. To perform installation begin by attaching the upper and lower radiator supports to the radiator followed by the radiator installation step that includes connecting the lower radiator hose with specific procedures for automatic transmission models that require installation of the 2 oil cooler hoses. The ECT switch connector needs replacement before installing both cooling fans, the radiator reservoir, and the RH engine under cover and upper radiator support using 5 bolts. The installation process begins by connecting the upper radiator hose after which you should replace the hood lock secured by three bolts and its connecting wire. Finish by attaching the front end panel with four screws before installing the radiator grille using four screws and two clips. Start the engine while adding engine coolant to hunt for any leaks within the coolant system.