Steering radiator : remove / check the condition / remount
The steering radiator is a tiny part located behing the grille, under the deflector and the header tank. You'll have to partly drain the cooling liquid, remove the bonnet and the grille and remove the header tank. This explains why this maintenance can be made aside of a radiator change.
0-Empty the header tank
Perform steps 1 to 3 of the coolant drain which are sufficient to empty the header tank.
1-Remove the bonnet
See here for the process.
2-Remove the grille
See here for the process
3-Remove the deflector pannel
This part is a piece of metal covering the front of the radiator block (AC condenser and steering cooler). Remove the four 7/16 in. - 11mm screws two on each side. Be ecxtremely careful because the mountings are thin and fragile.Tools: 11 mm - 7/16 in. open spanner
4-Deflector pannel removed
The steering radiator is now accessible, above the AC compressor.
5-View of the steering radiator
6-Remove the two 11mm - 7/16 in.setscrew securing the radiator to the deflector
Tools: 11mm - 7/16 in. socket
7-Unscrew the two clips securing the steeering radiator hoses
Although not under pressure Dexron leakage is to be expected when the hoses are released. You should spread paper under the hoses prior to detach them.Tools: Flat screwdriver
8-Once the clips are released, gently twist the hoses with pliers and ease the radiator out.
Beware not to foul the lines. Use penetrating oil to ease the removal.Tools: Pliers
9-Steering radiator removed
Do not forget to protect the lines from ingress of dirt.
10-Use a soft metal brush to remove dirt, rust, old paint ..
11-Repaint part using black high temperature paint
12-Fit a new steering radiator hose
Cut the right length of 8mm Silicone REDSPEC hose (available at ORECA).Tools: Cutter
13-New steering radiator hoses and clips ready for remount
14-Fit the hoses to the pipes, fit the clips
15-Fit the setscrews securing the steering radiator to the deflector
Tools: 11mm - 7/16 in. socket
16-Tighten the four clips securing the steering radiator hose
Tools: Ratchet with flat screwdriver end
17-Remount the deflector pannel
Put the pannel back in place and tighten the four 11mm - 7/16 in. setscrewsTools: 11mm - 7/16 in. socket
