GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 38185 Hose Clamp Pliers

  1. Remove the fuel injector sight shield. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement in Engine Mechanical-3.8L.
  2. Remove the throttle body air inlet duct. Refer to Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls-3.8L.
  3. Partially drain the engine coolant from the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .

  4. Object Number: 308970  Size: SH
  5. Use the J 38185 in order to remove the radiator hose clamp from the water outlet housing.
  6. Disconnect the radiator hose from the water outlet housing.

  7. Object Number: 153572  Size: SH
  8. Remove the water outlet mounting bolts.
  9. Remove the water outlet and gasket.
  10. Remove the thermostat.
  11. Inspect and clean the mating surfaces.
  12. • Water outlet
    • Lower intake manifold

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

J 38185 Hose Clamp Pliers

NOTICE: When adding coolant, it is important that you use GM Goodwrench DEX-COOL® or HAVOLINE® DEX-COOL® coolant. If Coolant other than DEX-COOL® or HAVOLINE® DEX-COOL® is added to the system the engine coolant will require change sooner; at 50 000 km (30,000 mi) or 24 months.


    Object Number: 153572  Size: SH
  1. Install the thermostat.
  2. Install the gasket and water outlet.
  3. Install the water outlet mounting bolts with RTV Sealer GM P/N 1052366 or equivalent.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the water outlet mounting bolts to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).


    Object Number: 308970  Size: SH
  5. Connect the radiator hose to the water outlet housing.
  6. Use theJ 38185 in order to install the radiator hose clamp to the water outlet housing.
  7. Fill the cooling system with engine coolant. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .
  8. Install the throttle body air inlet duct. Refer to Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls-3.8L.
  9. Install the fuel injector sight shield. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement in Engine Mechanical-3.8L.
  10. Inspect for leaks.