I have a 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan with 3.8L v-6. Approximately how many quarts/liters do I need to drain from the cooling system to avoid spillage when replacing the thermostat?
RESPONSE
WARNING! DO NOT remove or loosen the coolant pressure cap. cylinder block drain plugs, or the drain cock when the system is hot and under pressure because serious burns from the coolant may occur.
The coolant system holds 13.40 quarts with out rear heat and 16.30 quarts if equipped with rear heat. This includes heater and coolant recovery tank filled to “max” level. You will need to drain the coolant until the level is below the height of the thermostat. There will still be a small amount left on top of the thermostat as it will be closed. I do recommend removing the serpentine belt before it has a chance to be exposed to the coolant. One drop of coolant will cause the belt to squeal while replacing the belt is the only fix once this occurs.
2005 Dodge Grand Caravan thermostat removal tips
Remove upper radiator hose(1) once the coolant level is drained below the thermostat. Use Radiator Hose Pinch Pliers to secure most of the coolant stays in the hose. The hose pinch tool will keep the coolant from coming out and can be used on other vehicles other than the 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. Clamp the hose before removing it from the thermostat housing. Follow image for more Details…
Another option is to drain all the coolant into a clean container and reuse the coolant. Mopar coolant is good for 100,000 miles.