3.8 Coolant By-Pass Elbow

[c_olive18]

Is it a rough job to replace the o-rings in the coolant by-pass elbow that runs through the belt trensioner on a 2001? Do we replace the elbow entirely? Leaking coolant at a good rate. So far (114 K) no leaks on either of the intakes.

Thanks for the help.

[auto trainy]

I would replace the entire elbow with all new o rings,not that hard I think the altenator also must come off,just remember if you disconnect the battery make sure to first remove the neg cable and then the positive and ask wherever you buy the elbow if there are other o rings that should also be replaced. good luck

[BNaylor]

To properly replace the 90 degree plastic elbow not only do you need to remove the alternator but the tensioner assembly as well or at least remove it and set it aside with the heater hoses connected. The elbow from a GM dealer has the two o-rings in the package.

Note that the elbow is fitted to the lower intake manifold and tensioner assembly.

[c_olive18]

Thanks for the suggestions guys. I picked up the pack of elbows (2) at NAPA (Balkamp). They were under 5 bucks. I see 2 elbows on the tensioner. One is bottom backside. Not surre but that is probably why there are 2 in the pack, and are both different sizes. I will add a touch of high temp RTV which will lube the o-rings a bit on insertion. I will tackle that before work tomorrow afternoon. Will let you know how it goes. Thanks alot!!

[c_olive18]

Job was quite easy except the little peice of broken elbow that took me 30 minutes to fish out of the LIM. Used a water hose to flush it back to the hole from the thermostat housing and grabbed it with a wire hook. Replaced both elbows. Also did a good flush and got rid of the Dex-Cool. I appreciate all the help.
Thanks!