Caravan FWD V6-3.3L VIN 3 Flex Fuel (2001)
Radiator Cap: Description and Operation
DESCRIPTION
The cooling system pressure cap is located on the radiator. The cap construction includes; stainless steel swivel top, rubber seals, and retainer, main
spring, and a spring loaded valve.
OPERATION
The cooling system is equipped with a pressure cap that releases excessive pressure; maintaining a range of 97 - 124 kPa (14 - 18 psi).
The cooling system will operate at higher than atmospheric pressure. The higher pressure raises the coolant boiling point thus, allowing increased
radiator cooling capacity.
There is also a vent valve in the center of the cap. This valve also opens when coolant is cooling and contracting, allowing the coolant to return to
cooling system from coolant reserve system tank by vacuum through a connecting hose. If valve is stuck shut, or the coolant recovery hose is pinched,
the radiator hoses will be collapsed on cool down. Clean the vent valve and inspect coolant recovery hose routing, to ensure proper sealing when
boiling point is reached.
The gasket in the cap seals the filler neck, so that vacuum can be maintained, allowing coolant to be drawn back into the radiator from the reserve
tank. If the gasket is dirty or damaged, a vacuum may not be achieved, resulting is loss of coolant and eventual overheating due to low coolant level in
radiator and engine.
