Grand Caravan FWD V6-3.3L VIN 3 Flex Fuel (2002)
Fig.23 Heater Plumbing
REMOVAL
There are several heater core plumbing configurations used on this model, depending upon the engine size and other optional equipment. One
plumbing configuration is used for all 2.4L engines, while the 3.3L and 3.8L engines have unique heater return plumbing on the engine for models
with or without an optional engine oil cooler. There are also unique plumbing configurations at the heater core for models with or without the optional
rear heater and air conditioner. All models use a combination of formed steel tubing and rubber hoses. In most cases, the rubber hose is secured to the
steel tubing with a spring tension clamp.
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE PERFORMING THE
FOLLOWING OPERATION.
1. Drain the engine cooling system.
2. Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress and slide the clamps that secure each end of the heater hose to the tube or nipple toward the center of
the hose to be removed. Release the clamp when it is OFF of the tube or nipple.
CAUTION:
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When removing the heater hose from the heater core or supply and return tube nipples, DO NOT apply excessive pressure. Excessive pressure
may damage or deform the nipples and/or the heater core causing an engine coolant leak.
3. After the clamp has been moved, grasp the end of the hose firmly and carefully twist the hose back and forth while pulling it away from the barbed
end of the nipple. Repeat this procedure at the opposite end of the hose being removed. If this procedure is not successful in removing the hose
from the nipple, carefully make a parallel cut through the hose where it is engaged on the nipple and peel the hose OFF of the nipple. This method
of removal will require heater hose replacement.
INSTALLATION
There are several heater core plumbing configurations used on this model, depending upon the engine size and other optional equipment. One
plumbing configuration is used for all 2.4L engines, while the 3.3L and 3.8L engines have unique heater return plumbing on the engine for models
with or without an optional engine oil cooler. There are also unique plumbing configurations at the heater core for models with or without the optional
rear heater and air conditioner. All models use a combination of formed steel tubing and rubber hoses. In most cases, the rubber hose is secured to the
steel tubing with a spring tension clamp.
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE PERFORMING THE
FOLLOWING OPERATION.
1. Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress and slide the clamps that secure each end of the heater hose toward the center of the hose being
installed. Release the clamp when it is near the center of the hose.
2. Grasp one end of the heater hose being installed firmly and carefully twist the hose back and forth while pushing it over from the barbed end of the
nipple. Repeat this procedure at the opposite end of the hose being installed.
3. Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress and slide the clamps that secure each end of the heater hose over the tube or nipple. Release the clamp
when it is over the tube or nipple.
