Families have loved the Dodge Caravan for years. Like all vehicles, though, you need to keep an eye on the cooling system so that your engine keeps everything working right. Although you'll rarely need to replace the coolant recovery tank, when excess wear appears on your 1997 to 2008 Caravan coolant recovery tank, get a new one and replace it as per these easy steps.
Obtain the coolant recovery tank necessary for your vehicle at a local auto parts store. For the Dodge Caravan, this will be the universal fit Champ #9-1663. The recovery tank is located to the side of the radiator. You will see the coolant recovery tank connecting to the radiator by way of a single hose.
Place a bowl-like container beneath the old reservoir. Take out the stovepipe by loosening the clamps with a flathead screwdriver. Next, move away the air filter box and the old tank's cap. Put these aside.
Suck out the old coolant with a fluid hand pump. Squirt this coolant into an empty coolant bottle to use later.
Remove the four bolts that hold the coolant recovery tank on the brackets with a 10mm wrench. Now, tilt the old Dodge Caravan reservoir at an angle and loosen the three hose clamps.
Use a heavy-duty flashlight to look for the two zip ties that hold the electric cable and vent hose in place. Release the bolts holding the front-mounting bracket and completely take off the rear-mounting bracket.
Replace the rear-mounting bracket, but don't tighten the bolts. You will need to move the cable out of the way.
Situate the new coolant recovery tank where you removed the old reservoir. Maneuver it around until you get the right placement to match the bolts. Put in the front reservoir bolts, leaving them loose. Install the rear bolts and tighten them and then tighten the front bolts.
Put the lower feed hose into place and tighten the clamp (replace the clamp or the hose with new components, if necessary). Next, do the same with the upper return hose. Follow up by putting the vent line hose in place. Apply lubricant on the seals that meet the cap on the tank.
Add the leftover coolant. If you need more coolant, use a mixture that is 1:1 antifreeze and water until the recovery tank is just over half full. Put the coolant recovery cap in place and hand tighten it.
Mount the air filter package in place, and put the stovepipe back onto the Dodge Caravan. Take the vehicle for a test drive, and then check for leaks and correct any problems you find.
