Installation Procedure

Apply a coating of lubricant to the O-ring seal and the cleaned surface of the plug opening in the block. Use a water spray resistant, high-temperature grease lubricant (GM P/N 9985164 or equivalent).
Important: Install the heater element. Avoid element contact to the inner walls of the engine block.
Install the engine coolant heater and push tight to the block.

Fig 1: Installing Engine Coolant Heater (4.3L)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE .
Tighten the bolt until both locking wings draw tight against the inner wall of the engine block.
Tighten

Tighten the bolt to 1.9 N.m (17 lb in).

Fig 2: Tightening Engine Coolant Heater Bolt (4.3L)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Important: The heater cord must not touch the following components:
- The engine
- The hot pipes
- The manifold
- Any moving components
Install the heater cord to the coolant heater.

Fig 3: Installing Heater Cord To Coolant Heater (4.3L)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Route the heater cord (2WD).

Fig 4: Routing Heater Cord - 2WD (4.3L)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Route the heater cord (4WD).
Fill the cooling system. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System .
Inspect the cooling system for leaks.

Fig 5: Routing Heater Cord - 4WD (4.3L)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.