Hello,

Just changed the rad in my 02 Dakota and was concerned about air lock in the system. I've changed a few rads before on older vehicles years ago but never thought anything about it. Does anyone have any insight as to how to make sure there is no air within the system?

Thanks

 

Well, if you have a 3.9 or a 5.9, the system will bleed itself when you fill it because the fill point is the highest point in the system. Just be sure you are running your heater when you fill it. As for the 4.7, fill it with the engine off. Remove the allen head plug at the top of the timing cover next to the radiator hose fitting. When coolant comes out of the hole, replace the plug and fire it up and add coolant to the radiator as needed.

 

Thanks,
Sorry should have told you it was a 4.7L. Worked good by the looks of it.

 

If you do have an air problem, you will know almost immediately. Air pockets will cause it to overheat in a matter of a couple minutes.