RAM 1500 Truck 2WD V6-3.7L VIN K (2003)
Coolant Reservoir: Description and Operation
COOLANT DEGAS CONTAINER 3.7L/4.7L
DESCRIPTION
The coolant degas container is mounted on top of the fan shroud and is made of high temperature plastic.
OPERATION
The coolant degas system works in parallel with the radiator. It is fed through a vent line connected to the top of the radiator inlet tank and returns to
the engine/coolant pump via the heater return hoses. This plumbing arrangement, together with the inlet thermostat, provides for constant flow through
the degas container whenever the engine is running. The air space in the top of the degas container serves several functions. It provides a volume for
the expansion of coolant during engine operation. It provides a space for quick de-aeration of the coolant. Since the container is the highest point in
the cooling system, any air trapped in the coolant will quickly be transported to the degas container and be separated out.
The air space also acts as sort of a spring that provides constant system pressurization in conjunction with the radiator cap on top of the container. By
returning coolant to the pump side of the inlet thermostat, the degas container also supplies greater pressure to the coolant pump, providing for
enhanced coolant flow at high engine speeds.
The degas container also provides a convenient and safe method for checking the coolant level with out removing the radiator pressure cap. The degas
container does not require a separate overflow container since it was designed with enough volume to provide a coolant reserve and also protect for
any after-boil conditions.
