Thermostat—Gas Engines; Radiator Cap—Pressure Testing - Dodge 2000 DURANGO Service Manual

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DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)
THERMOSTAT—GAS ENGINES
ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTICS
All gasoline powered models are equipped with
On-Board Diagnostics for certain cooling system com-
ponents. Refer to On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) in the
Diagnosis section of this group for additional infor-
mation. If the powertrain control module (PCM)
detects low engine coolant temperature, it will record
a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) in the PCM mem-
ory. Do not change a thermostat for lack of heat as
indicated by the instrument panel gauge or by poor
heater performance unless a DTC is present. Refer to
the Diagnosis section of this group for other probable
causes. For other DTC numbers, refer to On-Board
Diagnostics in the General Diagnosis section of
Group 25, Emission Systems.
The DTC can also be accessed through the DRB
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate Powertrain Diag-
nostic Procedures manual for diagnostic information
and operation of the DRB scan tool.
RADIATOR CAP-TO-FILLER NECK SEAL—
PRESSURE RELIEF CHECK
The pressure cap upper gasket (seal) pressure
relief can be tested by removing overflow hose from
radiator filler neck nipple. Attach hose of pressure
tester tool 7700 (or equivalent) to nipple. It will be
necessary to disconnect hose from its adapter for
filler neck. Pump air into radiator. The pressure cap
upper gasket should relieve at 69-124 kPa (10-18 psi)
and hold pressure at a minimum of 55 kPa (8 psi).
WARNING: THE WARNING
OPEN HOT— ON RADIATOR PRESSURE CAP, ARE
A SAFETY PRECAUTION. WHEN HOT, PRESSURE
BUILDS UP IN COOLING SYSTEM. TO PREVENT
SCALDING OR INJURY, RADIATOR CAP SHOULD
NOT BE REMOVED WHILE SYSTEM IS HOT AND/OR
UNDER PRESSURE.
Do not remove radiator cap at any time except for
the following purposes:
(1) Check and adjust antifreeze freeze point.
(2) Refill system with new antifreeze.
(3) Conducting service procedures.
(4) Checking for vacuum leaks.
WARNING: IF VEHICLE HAS BEEN RUN RECENTLY,
WAIT AT LEAST 15 MINUTES BEFORE REMOVING
RADIATOR CAP. WITH A RAG, SQUEEZE RADIATOR
UPPER HOSE TO CHECK IF SYSTEM IS UNDER
PRESSURE. PLACE A RAG OVER CAP AND WITH-
OUT PUSHING CAP DOWN, ROTATE IT COUNTER-
CLOCKWISE TO FIRST STOP. ALLOW FLUID TO
ESCAPE THROUGH THE COOLANT RESERVE/
WORDS —DO NOT
OVERFLOW HOSE
TANK. SQUEEZE RADIATOR UPPER HOSE TO
DETERMINE WHEN
RELEASED. WHEN COOLANT AND STEAM STOP
BEING PUSHED INTO TANK AND SYSTEM PRES-
SURE DROPS, REMOVE RADIATOR CAP COM-
PLETELY.
RADIATOR CAP—PRESSURE TESTING
Remove cap from radiator. Be sure that sealing
surfaces are clean. Moisten rubber gasket with water
and install cap on pressure tester 7700 or an equiv-
alent (Fig. 24).
Fig. 24 Pressure Testing Radiator Cap—Typical
1 – PRESSURE CAP
2 – TYPICAL COOLING SYSTEM PRESSURE TESTER
Operate tester pump to bring pressure to 117 kPa
(17 psi) on gauge. If pressure cap fails to hold pres-
sure of at least 110 kPa (16 psi) replace cap. Refer to
following CAUTION.
The pressure cap may test properly while posi-
tioned on tool 7700 (or equivalent). It may not hold
pressure or vacuum when installed on radiator. If so,
inspect radiator filler neck and cap's top gasket for
damage. Also inspect for dirt or distortion that may
prevent cap from sealing properly.
COOLING SYSTEM
INTO RESERVE/OVERFLOW
PRESSURE HAS
7 - 21
BEEN