Installation Procedure

Important:  The heater element must not touch the engine block inner wall in the installed position or damage to the engine block and coolant heater could result.

1. Apply a coat of engine coolant heater lubricant, GM P/N 12345996 or equivalent, to the O-ring and walls of the coolant heater hole.
2. Finger start the coolant heater to the engine block.
   NOTE: 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.
3. Tighten the coolant heater.

   Tighten 

   Tighten the coolant heater to 40 N.m (30 lb ft).

   Fig 1: Installing Coolant Heater

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
4. Install the coolant heater electrical cord to the heater.
5. Lower the vehicle.
6. Fill the cooling system. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System .
   Fig 2: Installing Coolant Heater Electrical Cord To Heater

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.