2001 GTP Plastic Heater Hose Fittings

zepol · #1 02-26-2011, 06:44 PM

I've been smelling coolant and have been having to fill it up the radiator over and over again. Finally got a chance to pressure test the system and found that the little black plastic elbow that goes from the water pump to the intake? is leaking. I switched them out once before but that was when I changed the water pump. I don't want to take off more than I have to in order to get that thing replaced. What's the most efficient way to replace that annoying piece of crap? Thanks!

Zep

tblake · #2 02-26-2011, 07:32 PM

Remove alternator, remove three 15mm bolts holding tensioner assembly to block, then you should be able to get the elbows out. Make sure to use gm oem elbows so they don't split on you again.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbul...d.php?t=663401

BNaylor · #3 02-27-2011, 07:32 AM

The plastic bypass elbows are actually on the tensioner assembly and then go to the LIM and water pump. The plastic elbow(s) will most likely come off in pieces and be stuck in the LIM. So be sure to get all the broken pieces out. Be sure to replace both of them.

kpabt0525 · #4 03-01-2011, 08:13 AM

I replaced them last week with the help of everyone on this site. Also when you remove the broken elbows, look in all 4 holes. If it had a small leak they may have sort of a build up around the holes. Be sure they are very clean when replacing. From the dealer, one was $6 and the other $12.

zepol · #5 03-01-2011, 11:27 AM

Cool...I will try and do this today after work. Even though its a fairly simple job I'll take pics and post them for others in the future. Won't be as snazzy as my rack and pinion write up but I'm sure it will help someone in the future.

Out of curiosity could this issue somehow leak coolant into my oil or am I looking at another and much larger issue?

inafogg · #6 03-01-2011, 12:38 PM

Out of curiosity could this issue somehow leak coolant into my oil or am I looking at another and much larger issue?

no that sounds more like up/lower intake gaskets or worse, head gasket
better off doing this all at one time(intake & elbows)

zepol · #7 03-01-2011, 12:51 PM

I figured...Ugh. Whats the best way to tell which gasket/s needs to be replaced and do we have write ups on said gasket replacements? Thanks!

inafogg · #8 03-01-2011, 12:55 PM

lots of info here, do a search using key words uim or lim in GP forum
you'll get alot of good info
Good luck

tblake · #9 03-01-2011, 02:29 PM

To start, how many miles do you have? I doubt your head gaskets are the issue. The usually burn coolant in the cylinders rather than leak into the crnakcase.

Head Gaskets are possible but unlikly. A tell tale sign if your LIM gaskets are leaking is coolant puddled up near the injectors.

Like inafogg said, best if you replace the LIM gaskets and bypass elbows at the same time.

zepol · #10 03-01-2011, 04:25 PM

138,000 on the mileage. I do think there is coolant by the injectors but was assuming that maybe the plastic elbows somehow had something to do with that.

tblake I always have trouble finding the right articles on walk throughs on this because I don't think there is a way to search specifically inside of the Grand Prix forum right? If so please let me know how to search just the GP forum but if not do you have the link to replacing the LIM gaskets? I found a post that you did but the instructions weren't really detailed and the pics were missing.

Should I do the UIM at the same time too?

If I am replacing these gaskets what should I use OEM or Felpro?

I replaced the oil inside of the supercharger yesterday and man that stuff stunk like limburger cheese x10! I still have the smell in my nose hairs LOL.

BNaylor · #11 03-01-2011, 05:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zepol

If I am replacing these gaskets what should I use OEM or Felpro?

On the supercharger gasket and o-rings use the OE GM only. On the LIM gaskets you can use the revised GM aluminum framed or Fel-Pro aftermarket brand. Fel-Pro should have plastic and metal but either works fine. Also, the two LIM end seals that come with the gasket kit will be pinned.

Yeah that SC oil smells pretty nasty. Like nasty old fish oil.

zepol · #12 03-01-2011, 06:09 PM

Sorry to be so inquisitive...Do you think I should run to the dealership immediately and do this like tonight or will trying to save cash and getting them off of a web site be okay with having coolant mixed with my oil?

rickisrad · #13 03-01-2011, 06:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zepol

Sorry to be so inquisitive...Do you think I should run to the dealership immediately and do this like tonight or will trying to save cash and getting them off of a web site be okay with having coolant mixed with my oil?

If it leaking that bad you really don't want to drive it too much. It will take about 3-4 hours maybe more for a first timer. just take your time and do it right.... only use the GM silicone adhesive for the end caps.

zepol · #14 03-03-2011, 09:57 AM

I'm heading to the dealership to pick up the gaskets today. Should I switch out the valve cover gaskets while I am down there or only do it if I notice they need replacing?

tblake · #15 03-03-2011, 10:38 AM

If they are stock, it may not be a bad idea. However I would not get valve cover gaskets from the dealer. I'd use fel-pro. But its your call.

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