1998-2002 Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire 2.2L Upper Radiator Coolant Inlet Tube

Fit In Five Steps

How to replace a Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire 2.2L Upper Radiator Coolant Inlet Tube?

1.Locate Your Thermostat

Most thermostats are located where the top radiator hose joins the engine, so these steps deal with this type. If your thermostat is in the bottom radiator hose, the principle is the same. Place a bucket under where you’re going to be working. Some fluid will escape, so have a clean two-gallon container handy to catch it, and return the fluid to the radiator when you finish the job.

2.Remove the Clamp & Pull Off The Hose

Follow your radiator hose to where your thermostat is located. This is when some fluid will escape and drain into your bucket.

3.Remove Old Radiator Tube

Remove the bolts that hold the thermostat housing in place and lift out the old thermostat. Compare the new thermostat and its gasket with the old ones. If the new thermostat and the gasket that’s included with it aren’t exactly like the old ones, go back to the store for the right ones.

4.Install New Radiator Tube

There’s a gasket around the hole where the thermostat was located — take that off, too. Scrape off any pieces of a gasket that may be stuck, but be sure not to let these pieces fall into the hole! Make sure to place the spring-side down; then replace the bolts.

5.Replace Removal Parts & Check Leakage

If your hose clamp uses screws, screw it down tightly but not tight enough to cut into the hose. Replace whatever fluid ran out of the hose by pouring it from the container into the radiator fill hole or coolant reservoir. Be sure not to pour it on the ground where children and animals can be endangered by it. If you accidentally spill fluid, wipe it up thoroughly before hosing down the area, and then place the rags in a sealed plastic bag before disposing of them.