How to Replace the Coolant Recovery Tank in a Jeep Grand Cherokee

To keep your cooling system in optimum working condition, it's necessary to replace some parts. The coolant recovery tank may not be the first part that comes to mind, but it can deteriorate over time and begin to leak. Replacing this doesn't require an in-depth knowledge of your Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Things You'll Need

  • Bucket
  • Sealable container
  • Socket wrench
  • Socket extension
  • Hose clamp pliers
  • Coolant recovery tank
  • Coolant
  • Put a bucket underneath the radiator and directly below the drain plug. On most models of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, you'll find the plug on the bottom of the radiator on the right side.

  • Unfasten the drain plug to allow the coolant to drain into the bucket. Make certain the radiator is cool to the touch before you open the plug. Then, pour the drained coolant into a sealable container for proper disposal later.

  • Take a socket wrench and remove the nuts that secure the recovery tank to the Jeep Grand Cherokee. A socket extension may be necessary to access any nuts that are in difficult locations. Put the nuts in a safe place so you don't lose them.

  • Remove the coolant hose clamps with a pair of hose clamp pliers. You can use regular pliers, but these specialized pliers make the job easier. Be careful with hoses, as they can still contain radiator fluid that didn't drain completely.

  • Pull out the old coolant recovery tank and replace it with the new tank. The tank connectors should slide right over the bolts. Then use the socket wrench to put the nuts on the bolts and tighten them into place.

  • Reconnect the hoses and tighten the clamps into place with the hose clamp pliers. Check the security of the connections by pulling on the hoses.

  • Close the drain plug, refill the radiator with new coolant and start the engine of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Allow it to run for about 15 or 20 minutes. Next, shut off the engine and check for leaks. If no leaks appear, close the hood and clean up any mess you made.