A Dodge Neon's radiator is responsible for both storing and, in part, cooling the antifreeze which circulates throughout the engine. The radiator's efficiently is directly related to the radiator's ability to circulate the antifreeze through the cooling fins within the radiator. Over time, these cooling fins can become clogged with debris from inside the engine. Often times, the radiator can be repaired. However, extensive internal damage requires that the radiator be replaced. Whether the goal is repair or replacement, the first step of either process is to first remove the radiator from the Neon's engine compartment.
Drain the radiator by turning the drain plug located at the bottom driver's side of the radiator in a counterclockwise direction with a wrench.
Remove the upper radiator hose by loosening the clamp on the end of the hose with a flathead screwdriver. Then pull the hose away from the radiator.
Disconnect the radiator fan plug from its electrical connection by tracing the length of the fan's wire until the plug is reached. Then pull the plug out of its connection.
Remove the automatic transmission cooler lines from the bottom of the radiator with a wrench, if applicable.
Remove the lower radiator hose in the same manner used to remove the upper radiator hose.
Remove the four radiator mounting bolts with a wrench. There is one mounting bolt at each corner of the radiator.
Lift the radiator straight up to remove it from the engine compartment.
