This procedure covers removal and replacement of the upper radiator hose on a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler with the 3.6L V6 engine, including coolant draining and refilling.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper radiator hose × 1 — Mopar 68102346AA or equivalent
• Hose clamps (if reusing original clamps that are damaged) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Mopar OAT Coolant (Purple) — 2 qt

Preparation

1. Ensure engine is completely cold to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Open hood and ensure adequate workspace around radiator area
4. Place drain pan beneath radiator drain petcock location on passenger side of radiator

Procedure

1. 1

   Drain cooling system
   Locate the radiator drain petcock on the lower passenger side of the radiator. Slowly open the petcock counterclockwise by hand to begin draining coolant into the drain pan. You only need to drain enough coolant to drop the level below the upper radiator hose connection point (approximately 2-3 quarts).
   Torque spec

   Drain Petcock8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove engine cover
   Grasp the engine cover firmly and pull upward to disengage the rubber grommets from the mounting posts. Set the cover aside. This provides better access to the thermostat housing where the upper hose connects.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect upper hose at radiator
   Locate the upper radiator hose connection at the top passenger side of the radiator. Use a flathead screwdriver or hose clamp pliers to expand or loosen the spring clamp or worm gear clamp. Slide the clamp back along the hose away from the radiator neck. Twist the hose gently while pulling to break it free from the radiator. Expect some residual coolant spillage.
4. 4

   Disconnect upper hose at thermostat housing
   Follow the upper radiator hose to the engine side connection at the thermostat housing on the front of the engine. Loosen the hose clamp using the same method as before and slide it back along the hose. Twist and pull the hose to remove it from the thermostat housing outlet. Allow any remaining coolant to drain into your catch pan.
5. 5

   Inspect connections and remove old hose
   Remove the upper radiator hose completely from the engine bay. Inspect both the radiator neck and thermostat housing outlet for corrosion, cracks, or damage. Clean any debris or old gasket material from both connection points using a shop towel. Inspect the hose clamps for corrosion or damage and replace if necessary.
6. 6

   Install new upper radiator hose at thermostat housing
   Position a hose clamp onto the thermostat housing end of the new upper radiator hose. Align the hose with the thermostat housing outlet and push it firmly onto the outlet until it seats completely against the housing stop. The hose should be pushed on approximately 1.5 to 2 inches. Position the hose clamp approximately 0.5 inches from the end of the hose over the connection point.
7. 7

   Install new upper radiator hose at radiator
   Route the hose to the radiator ensuring it follows the factory path without kinks or sharp bends. Position a hose clamp onto the radiator end of the hose. Push the hose firmly onto the radiator neck until fully seated. Position the hose clamp approximately 0.5 inches from the end of the hose over the connection point.
8. 8

   Tighten hose clamps
   Tighten both hose clamps using a torque wrench to the specified torque. Ensure clamps are positioned squarely over the hose barbs and not twisted. Do not overtighten as this can damage the hose or connection points.
   ⚠Overtightening hose clamps can cut into the rubber hose and cause leaks or hose failure.
   Torque spec

   Hose Clamps4 Nm (3 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Close drain petcock
   Close the radiator drain petcock by turning it clockwise hand tight. Apply the specified torque but do not force it beyond hand tight as this can strip the plastic threads.
   Torque spec

   Drain Petcock8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Refill cooling system
    Remove the coolant reservoir cap. Using a funnel, add Mopar OAT purple coolant to the reservoir until it reaches the MAX COLD line. Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature with the reservoir cap off. The thermostat will open and coolant level will drop. Continue adding coolant as needed to maintain proper level. Run engine for 10-15 minutes to purge air from the system.
11. 11

    Check for leaks and reinstall engine cover
    With engine at operating temperature, carefully inspect both hose connections for any signs of coolant leakage. Squeeze the upper radiator hose to verify it is firm, indicating proper system pressure. If no leaks are present, shut off the engine and allow to cool for 15 minutes. Top off coolant reservoir to MAX COLD line and reinstall cap. Reinstall engine cover by aligning grommets with mounting posts and pressing down firmly until seated.

Reassembly

1. Engine cover reinstallation is the only reassembly required
2. Ensure all tools and drain pan are removed from engine bay before closing hood

Verification

• Start engine and verify coolant circulates properly with no leaks at either hose connection
• Check coolant level after engine reaches operating temperature and top off if necessary
• Monitor coolant level and temperature gauge during the first few drives to ensure system is functioning properly
• Re-check hose clamp tightness after first heat cycle when engine is cool

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