Radiator and electric fans — removal and installation (Honda Accord 3)

Honda engines use a liquid cooling system. The coolant, circulated through pipes by a water pump, heats up as the number of cycles through the engine increases. As the coolant circulates through the radiator, it is cooled by air flow created by the vehicle's movement or by the fan(s). The radiator fan is driven by a temperature sensor that turns on the fans when the coolant temperature exceeds a certain value.

WARNING: DO NOT attempt to open the cooling system when the engine is hot. The coolant in the system is under pressure and can burn you unexpectedly. Wait several hours after turning off the engine and proceed with installation after the engine and pipes can be touched without burning yourself.

Electric radiator fans are removed without first removing the radiator. Disconnect the wires from the fan, remove the fan shroud mounting bolts and the shroud with the fan itself. The fan blades can then be removed by unscrewing the bolts securing them to the shaft, and the motor can be separated from the shroud.

To remove the radiator:

1. Place a clean, dry container under the radiator, remove the drain plug and drain the coolant from the radiator.

2. Disconnect the electrical contacts from the thermal switch and the cooling fan motor.

3. Disconnect the upper coolant hose from the upper radiator tank and the lower hose from the connecting pipe to the water pump. Disconnect the expansion tank hose from the coolant tank.

4. Remove the mounting bolts and the radiator with the fan. The fan can be easily disconnected by unscrewing the bolts on the back of the radiator.

When removing the radiator, be careful not to damage the radiator honeycomb.

5. Pay attention to the rubber mounts or cushions, they must be reinstalled exactly in their places. Due to them, vibration transmitted to the radiator from the engine and the car as a whole is dampened.

6. Check the hoses for damage, leaks or physical wear. Replace them if necessary. If the radiator honeycombs are dirty, dirt particles can be washed out with water under low pressure. The honeycombs can be cleaned mechanically with thin, non-metallic objects of suitable size.

7. To install, place the radiator in place, making sure the rubber pads or washers are in place.

8. Install the retaining bolts, tightening them to 10 Nm.

9. Connect the hoses to their places using new hose clamps.

10. Connect the wires to the fan contacts.

11. Double check the drain cock and, after making sure it is closed, fill the cooling system.