Thermostat Inlet Housing And Element Replacement - L81: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: SUV thermostat housing is different from L-Series.

Install the thermostat with housing:
1. Install a new O-ring seal.
2. Position the thermostat with the housing.
3. Apply thread sealant PST 565® to bolt threads.
4. Install the housing bolts.
  Torque:
  
  Thermostat Housing Bolts - L81: 20 N.m (15 ft-lbs)
  
  Fig 1: Installing The Thermostat With Housing
  Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Lubricate the coolant pipe O-rings with coolant.
Install O-rings on coolant pipe.

Fig 2: Installing O-Rings On Coolant Pipe
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: The correct stack up should be cylinder head, engine lift bracket, coolant extension housing, oil level indicator tube bracket and bolt.
Properly position engine lift bracket.
Install coolant pipe into thermostat housing.
Rotate oil level tube into position.
Install coolant pipe engine lift bracket bolt.
Torque:

Coolant Pipe Engine Lift Bracket Bolt - L81: 20 N.m (15 ft-lbs)

Fig 3: Installing Coolant Pipe Engine Lift Bracket Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Connect radiator hose to coolant pipe.
Install intake manifold.
Fill the cooling system.

Fig 4: Installing Intake Manifold
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.