Radiator Removal

Overview

This procedure outlines the steps to remove the radiator from your Porsche 944 S2 with a 3.0L engine. The radiator is critical for cooling the engine by circulating coolant, and removal may be necessary for maintenance, repair due to leaks or damage, or upgrades. Following these steps carefully ensures a safe and effective process, saving you time and money while keeping your cooling system in top condition.

Pink and blue text represents links to additional resources, tools, parts, and partner websites.

Tools Required

• 10mm (3/8 inch) socket and ratchet
• Flat tip screwdriver
• Diagonal cutters

Required Additional Procedures

Steps in these procedures are required to complete this process:

• Coolant System Draining, Filling, and Venting

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

1. Disconnect the negative lead from the battery to ensure safety while working on the cooling system.
2. Drain the coolant system completely. Follow this link to ensure this step – Coolant System Draining, Filling, and Venting – of the process is followed accurately.

Step 2: Remove the Cooling Fan Assembly

3. In the engine compartment, use diagonal cutters to cut any retaining straps securing the fan shroud.
4. Use a 10mm (3/8 inch) socket and ratchet to remove the three bolts attaching the fan assembly to the upper radiator support.
5. From underneath the car, cut any retaining straps securing the fan wires to the fan housing using diagonal cutters, then unplug the fan connectors.
6. Remove the three bolts from the bottom of the fan assembly using the 10mm (3/8 inch) socket and ratchet. Carefully lift the fan assembly out of the vehicle.

Step 3: Disconnect the Radiator

7. Loosen the jam nuts on the two radiator retaining bolts on the upper cross-member using a wrench. Slightly loosen the retaining bolts without removing them fully.
8. Unplug the thermofan switch located on the radiator.
9. Note the position of the hose clamps on the radiator hoses to aid reassembly later and avoid interference with other components.
10. Disconnect all radiator hoses by loosening the clamps with a flat tip screwdriver and carefully pulling the hoses off.

Step 4: Remove the Radiator (Porsche 944 S2 Specific)

11. From underneath the vehicle, push up on the bottom of the radiator to free it from the rubber mounts on the lower cross-member.
12. Pull the bottom of the radiator toward the rear of the car, then carefully lower it out of the vehicle.

Post Procedure Checklist

• Inspect the removed radiator for damage or leaks to determine if repair or replacement is necessary.
• Store the radiator in a safe place to avoid damage if it will be reused.
• Keep all bolts, clamps, and connectors organized for potential reinstallation.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manual, Volume 1
• YouTube