Hello. I have a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. From what I can tell, in order to replace the radiator, I need to disconnect the transmission cooler lines. However, from looking at the cooler lines, they appear difficult to remove, not a simple bracket you pinch and pull down a hose. Does anyone have any advice, diagrams, etc. for removing these lines. Is a special tool needed? Thank you.

 

Not sure on the 05 but on my 02 it was a simple worm clamp and barb fitting. Mine had a separate trans cooler.

 

I think you are right about the cooler being separate, but it looks attached to the radiator. Is it really attached to the radiator? How do I separate the cooler from the radiator? I am a beginner, and I am trying to get as much information as possible to determine if this is a job I can do. I really hate paying $200-$300 just for labor. Thanks.

 

If it is attached to the radiator it is only by a bracket at the top and/or bottom of the radiator. Unbolt the upper radiator support and have a look.

 

On my 05 the transmission cooler is part of the A/C condenser. They are joined together, one half is the condenser and the other half is a transmission cooler. The lines are disconnected by pulling the plastic ring back then removing the little spring clip with a small pick. Be very careful not to loose the clip when it comes out as new ones cannot be obtained.

I don't recall exactly how things are laid out down there, but why is it necessary to remove the transmission cooler lines to replace the radiator?

 

It is NOT necessary to remove trans line at all. There are some clips and bolt that holds the Condensor/trans cooler in front of the radiator, you just have to separate them and wiggle your radiator up.

 

Everything is so compact, that it looked like the lines were feeding into the radiator. I agree, and can see now, that they don't feed into the radiator. I appreciate all of the comments and help.