TO diagnose cooling system problems, you need to understand how your system functions. In simple terms, coolant picks up heat when it goes through the engine and releases heat in the radiator. Cooling devices work by circulating antifreeze, containing it or controlling its temperature. Troubleshoot the cooling system in a Chrysler Town & Country by inspecting cooling system devices regularly.
See if the water pump is leaking. Your water pump pushes coolant through the engine, radiator and heater core. A slight smell of antifreeze or spots of it under your Town & Country when parked for a short time indicate a worn out water pump.
Check the hoses for cracks, collapses, leaks or dryness. This includes upper and lower radiator hoses, heater and bypass hoses and manifold coolant hoses. Your upper hoses for instance, measure about 2 inches wide and carry coolant between the radiator and engine. Damaged hoses lead to cooling system problems.
Look at the coolant amount. Overheating can result from low antifreeze levels, so add it to the coolant tank reservoir. Use a 50/50 mixture of Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 5 year, 100,000 Mile Formula HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) and water. Use this mix in the 3.3L and 3.8L engines.
Drain and flush the cooling system to explore cooling system problems. Make sure you dispose drained antifreeze properly because the coolant's sweet smell attracts animals and small children. Ingesting the poisonous liquid can be fatal.
Inspect the radiator cap for signs of wear and tear. Erosion can plague a worn out cap. Ask a mechanic to use a pressure tester or an adapter to inspect the cap's pressure rating and operation. Replace a defective cap right away.
Wash and gently scrub the front of your radiator. When you drive, dirt, rocks, leaves and other debris suck into the fins of your radiator causing overheating. Clean it with soapy water, a soft nylon brush, and a garden hose to rinse.
Examine the thermostat for sticking. You can pinpoint a stuck thermostat by constant low temperature readings or peaks between high and normal temperatures. Your thermostat is usually located inside the housing on the engine side of the upper radiator hose.
