How to Replace the Heater Hoses in a Jeep Grand Cherokee
by Editorial TeamThe Jeep Grand Cherokee, first introduced in 1993, remains a popular medium sized sport utility vehicle. You need to check the heater hoses after extensive road trips and after every spring to check for deterioration and leaks. With regular maintenance, a Grand Cherokee's heater hoses can last 4 or 5 years. If you need to replace them, follow these steps.
Step 1
Allow the engine to cool down and then locate the heater hoses. The top hose runs to the thermostat while the lower hose fits behind the air conditioner compressor.
Step 2
Empty the radiator of coolant. Place a drain pan underneath it to catch excess fluid. Put the coolant in a sealed container and properly dispose of it according to your local municipality regulations.
Step 3
Loosen and remove the clamps connected to the heater hoses with a screwdriver or pliers. Use a utility knife to slit the old hoses, and then twist them and take them out of the engine compartment.
Step 4
Measure the old heater hoses before buying new ones to ensure you purchase the proper replacement parts, especially if you order Grand Cherokee parts from an auto supply store.
Step 5
Clean the fittings with a multipurpose cleaning solution. Grease them with a gasket sealer to ensure a tight connection with the new heater hoses.
Step 6
Slide the clamps over the new Cherokee heater hoses, and screw the hoses onto the fittings. Check both ends of the hose to make sure you have a firm, snug connection. Use pliers to tighten the fittings if necessary.
Step 7
Add coolant to the radiator, and then cap it. Run the Jeep Grand Cherokee's engine until the hoses are warm. Check for coolant leaks. Adjust the fittings if coolant drips from the hose connections.
Tips
- Ensure that the Jeep Grand Cherokee has a 50 percent coolant level at all times to ensure proper functioning.
Things You'll Need
- Drain pan
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Utility knife
- Multipurpose cleaning solution
- Gasket sealer
- Clamps
- Heater hoses
- Coolant
Warnings
- Keep all coolant away from children and pets. They like the sweet smell of it and may drink it, causing serious injury or death.
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