GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement L36

Tools Required

J 38185 Hose Clamp Pliers

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the engine cover. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement in Engine Mechanical.
  2. Drain the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .
  3. Using the J 38185 loosen and move the inlet radiator hose clamp at the thermostat housing.
  4. Remove the inlet hose from the housing.

  5. Object Number: 46168  Size: SH
  6. Remove the thermostat housing bolts (1).
  7. Remove the thermostat housing (2).
  8. Remove the thermostat (4).
  9. Clean the gasket mating surfaces and the housing and intake port.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 46168  Size: SH
  1. Install the thermostat (4).
  2. Install the thermostat housing (2) and a new gasket (3).
  3. 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.

  4. Install the thermostat housing bolts (1).
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the thermostat housing bolts to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).


    Object Number: 46166  Size: SH
  6. Install the inlet radiator hose and clamp.
  7. Refill the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .
  8. Install the engine cover. Refer to Fuel Injector Sight Shield Replacement in Engine Mechanical.

Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement LD8

Tools Required

J 38185 Hose Clamp Pliers

Removal Procedure

  1. Partially drain the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .
  2. Remove the air cleaner assembly. Refer to Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.6L.
  3. Position the J 38185 to the clamp in order to remove the radiator outlet hose from the thermostat housing.

  4. Object Number: 611039  Size: SH
  5. Remove the bolts securing the thermostat housing to the water pump inlet.

  6. Object Number: 611035  Size: SH
  7. Remove the thermostat and the gasket from the water pump housing.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 611035  Size: SH
  1. Install the thermostat and a new gasket into the water pump housing.
  2. Install the thermostat housing.

  3. Object Number: 611039  Size: SH

    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.

  4. Install the thermostat housing bolts.
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the thermostat housing bolts to 10 N·m (89 lb in).

  6. Position the J 38185 to the clamp in order to connect the radiator outlet hose to the thermostat housing.
  7. Install the air cleaner assembly. Refer to Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.6L.
  8. Fill the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling .