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Radiator Removal and Cooling System Modification

Model: BMW Serie 3 E36 - Years: 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001
Part: Radiator

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Video tutorial

Lift the vehicle on appropriate jack stands, place a drain pan under the radiator drain plug, and drain the coolant. To remove the radiator, first detach the electric fan, which requires a specific tool that is easily obtainable.

Next, remove the plastic covers, pull out the fan, and then the radiator by disconnecting the hoses attached to it. After that, release the auxiliary belt by loosening the tensioner to remove the water pump (it is suggested to draw the belt path on the various pulleys before removing it). Disconnect the hoses connected to the thermostat, remove the corresponding retaining pins, and extract the thermostat itself.

At this point, remove the water pump drive pulley, the mounting bolts of the pump, and take it out. Then, install the new pump with the modified impeller, secure the pulley to the flange, and replace the thermostat as well.

Finally, reassemble everything that was previously removed and fill the cooling system with the appropriate coolant.


Updated on 4 February 2026 by ScegliAuto


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