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Coolant Leak On 98 GTP


JKoffler44
11-28-2007, 12:14 AM
I have a coolant leak that is pretty bad on my 98 GTP. The plastic elbow that goes from the LIM to the belt tensioner right on top appears to be leaking. I have a little bit of knowledge working on cars and I was just wondering how tough of a job this might be, what it involves, and how I find the replacement part. It looks like it should just pop out since I can grab it easily but I know that is never the case. Is there a quick fix that could get me through to the weekend at least?
Thanks!

richtazz
11-28-2007, 05:49 AM
Do yourself a favor and get the OEM part from the dealer. It's not that expensive and of much better quality than the Motormite brand copy. Removing the belt tensioner assembly will allow the elbow to be removed, as it is held in place by the tensioner.

JKoffler44
11-28-2007, 07:12 AM
Do you suggest taking the part out and bringing it to them? I wouldn't know the name of the part.

BNaylor
11-28-2007, 07:55 AM
I agree with Rich. Best to go with the OEM GM 90 degree plastic coolant elbow. Also, you will need two o-ring seals.

We have a tensioner removal procedure at our Tips & Maintenance forum.

Click here (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=663401)

tblake
11-28-2007, 11:04 AM
Thanks for the info guys, Mine too seems to be leaking a little. Every once in while I have to top off my radiator, and under the 90 degree elbow it looks a little washed. I might just drive it untill spring like this since its so cold out.

richtazz
11-28-2007, 03:04 PM
FYI, the GM part number for the elbow is 24503423, and it comes with the two o-rings.

JKoffler44
11-28-2007, 11:24 PM
How big of a job do you think this is? I am just wondering if this is something over my head or if it isn't too bad.
Thanks a lot!

richtazz
11-29-2007, 05:33 AM
It's not a bad job at all. Disconnect the battery (make sure if the theft-lock light is lit on the radio that you have the code before disconnecting battery). Drain some coolant so it doesn't leak out everywhere, and remove the serp belt, the alternator for clearance, and the tensioner from the block. You can leave the heater hoses attached to the tensioner, as there is enough flex there to move it enough to get the elbow out and back in. Should take less than an hour.

JKoffler44
11-29-2007, 09:26 AM
Do I have to remove the entire serp belt, or can I just take it off the alternator? I don't want to not get it back on correctly!

tblake
11-29-2007, 10:21 AM
you can try, but it might end up falling off. You would have any problems getting it back on. There is a diagram under the hood.

tblake
11-29-2007, 10:22 AM
I meant you wouldn't....

JKoffler44
12-01-2007, 01:43 PM
The person whose car it was decided not to wait until this weekend for me to replace the elbow valve. She brought it into the shop and they said the water pump was the problem. So they fixed it, not me. Just thought I would give an update.
Thanks for all the help!

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