GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 38185 Spring Hose Clamp Pliers

    Notice: When adding coolant, use DEX-COOL® coolant. If silicated coolant is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the engine coolant will require change sooner-at 50 000 km (30,000 mi) or 24 months.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Refer to

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

    in General Information.

  2. Object Number: 11665  Size: SH
  3. Remove the Intake Air Temperature (IAT) electrical connector.

  4. Object Number: 12065  Size: SH
  5. Remove the air cleaner and intake duct.
  6. Partially drain the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .
  7. Remove the clamp and the lower radiator hose from the thermostat housing inlet of the water pump.

  8. Object Number: 11646  Size: SH
  9. Remove the thermostat housing bolts and the housing.
  10. Remove the thermostat and the gasket.

  11. Thoroughly clean the thermostat housing and the water pump gasket surfaces.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 11646  Size: SH
  1. Install the thermostat and the gasket with the taper up. Install the housing with the bolts to the water pump.
  2. Tighten
    Tighten the thermostat housing bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the radiator lower hose and clamp on the inlet side of the water pump.
  4. Fill the cooling system to the proper level. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .

  5. Object Number: 12065  Size: SH
  6. Install the air cleaner and the intake duct.

  7. Object Number: 11665  Size: SH
  8. Install the IAT electrical connector.
  9. Connect the negative battery cable.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the negative battery cable bolt to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).

  11. Start the engine. Check for coolant leaks.