- Install a NEW thermostat housing cover O-ring seal into the recess groove.
- Install the thermostat, if necessary.
Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.
- Install the thermostat housing cover bolts, if necessary.
Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).
- Install a NEW thermostat housing to engine O-ring seal onto the thermostat housing.
- Load the thermostat housing assembly into position while the vehicle is lowered.
Note: The water feed pipe seals can be lightly lubricated with coolant to aid during installation.
- Install NEW O-ring seals onto the water feed pipe.
Note: Lubricate the O-rings with coolant ONLY.
- Install the water feed pipe into the thermostat housing aligning locator tab.
- Align the water pipe to water pump.
- Seat the water feed O-ring seal by pushing inward toward the water pump. Take care not to tear or damage the O-ring.
- Position the thermostat housing against the engine.
- Install the thermostat housing bolts.
Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).
- Connect the heater inlet (1) and outlet (2) hoses to the thermostat housing pipes.
- Position the heater inlet and outlet hose clamps at the thermostat housing pipes.
- Install the exhaust heat shield.
- Install the exhaust heat shield bolts.
Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 23 N·m (17 lb ft).
- Install the radiator outlet hose to the thermostat housing.
- Position the radiator outlet hose clamp at the thermostat housing.
- Install the radiator outlet hose to the surge tank.
- Position the radiator outlet hose clamp at the surge tank.
- Apply sealant to the threads of the ECT sensor. Refer to
Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers.
- Install the ECT sensor.
Tighten
Tighten the sensor to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).
- Connect the ECT sensor electrical connector (1).
- Connect the HO2S electrical connector clip to the bracket.
- Apply sealant GM P/N 12378521 (Canadian P/N 88901148) or equivalent to the water pump drain plug.
- Install the water pump drain plug.
Tighten
Tighten the drain plug to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).
Note: The vehicle must be level when filling the cooling system.
- Verify the drain valves at the radiator and water pump are closed.
- Fill the cooling system. Refer to
Cooling System Draining and Filling.
- Verify the repair and inspect for any leaks.