GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    •  J 24460-01 Cooling System Pressure Tester
    •  J 26568 Coolant and Battery Tester
    •  J 46143 Cooling System Adapter

Draining Procedure

Caution: To avoid being burned, do not remove the starter/generator control module (SGCM) cap while the SGCM is hot. The cooling system will release scalding fluid and steam under pressure if the SGCM cap is removed while the SGCM is still hot.


    Object Number: 1206692  Size: SH
  1. Follow the steps below in order to remove the generator control module (GCM) tank fill cap.
  2. 1.1. Slowly rotate the cap counterclockwise.
    1.2. Stop rotating and allow the hissing to stop.
    1.3. After all the hissing stops, continue turning counterclockwise in order to remove the cap.
  3. Remove the grille from the vehicle. Refer to Grille Replacement .
  4. Place a drain pan under the GCM radiator.
  5. Remove the GCM coolant pump outlet hose from the radiator. Refer to Generator Control Module Coolant Pipe Quick Connect Fitting Replacement .
  6. Drain the cooling system.
  7. Inspect the coolant.
  8. Follow the appropriate procedure based on the condition of the coolant.
  9. • Normal in appearance--Follow the filling procedure.
    • Discolored--Follow the flush procedure. Refer to Generator Control Module Flushing .

Filling Procedure


    Object Number: 1206692  Size: SH
  1. Install the GCM coolant pump outlet hose to the radiator. Refer to Generator Control Module Coolant Pipe Quick Connect Fitting Replacement .
  2. Notice: The procedure below must be followed. Improper coolant level could result in a low or high coolant level condition, causing starter/generator control module damage.


    Object Number: 1206674  Size: SH

    Important: Use a 50/50 mixture of DEX-COOL antifreeze and clean, drinkable water.

    Fill the GCM cooling system until the coolant reaches the full cold mark.

  3. Slowly fill the cooling system with a 50/50 coolant mixture. Refer to Approximate Fluid Capacities .
  4. Important: Do not exceed the pressure cap rating.

  5. Use the J 24460-01 with the J 46143 in order to apply pressure to the cooling system.
  6. To run the GCM coolant pump, perform the following steps:
  7. 4.1. Install the scan tool.
    4.2. Turn the ignition ON with the engine OFF.
    4.3. With the scan tool set to Powertrain, Alternative Fuels, Special Functions, GCM Output Controls, command the GCM pump speed ON for 1 minute.
    4.4. Turn the ignition OFF.
  8. Remove the cooling system pressure tester and adapter from the GCM cooling system.
  9. Top off the coolant as necessary.
  10. Repeat step 3 through 7 until the GCM cooling system is at the full cold mark.
  11. Important: Make sure the coolant is flowing.

  12. Inspect the concentration of the GCM coolant, using the J 26568 .
  13. Rinse away any excess coolant from the GCM and the engine compartment.