Filling Procedure

1999 GMC Forward Control 5.7 R, AutomaticSECTION Filling Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Aztek and 2003 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Apply pipe sealer to the drain plug prior to installing the engine block drains.

    Tighten

    Tighten the drain plug to 19 N.m (14 lb ft).

    Fig 1: Tightening Drain Plug
    G01500934Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  2. Close the radiator drain cock.
    Fig 2: Closing Radiator Drain Cock
    G01500935Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  3. Install the coolant recovery reservoir.
    NOTE: When adding coolant, it is important that you use GM Goodwrench DEX-COOL® or HAVOLINE® DEX-COOL® coolant. If Coolant other than DEX-COOL® or HAVOLINE® DEX-COOL® is added to the system the engine coolant will require change sooner; at 50 000 km (30,000 mi) or 24 months.
  4. Slowly add a 50/50 mixture of GM Goodwrench DEX-COOL® or HAVOLINE® DEX- COOL® and clean, drinkable water. Refer to Capacities-Approximate Fluid in General Information.
  5. Wait for 2 minutes and reinspect the level of the coolant in the radiator. If necessary, add coolant to the radiator until the coolant level is at the base of the radiator fill neck.
    Fig 3: Installing Coolant Recovery Reservoir
    G01500936Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  6. Install the radiator cap.
    Fig 4: Installing Radiator Cap
    G01500937Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  7. Ensure that the radiator cap arrow points toward the radiator overflow tube.
    Fig 5: Aligning Radiator Cap Arrow Points Toward Radiator Overflow Tube
    G01500938Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

    Important:  The air bleed valves are brass. Do NOT over-tighten the air bleed valves.

  8. Close the air bleed valve above the coolant pump.
    Fig 6: Closing Air Bleed Valve Above Coolant Pump
    G01500939Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  9. Close the air bleed valve on the thermostat housing.
  10. Fill the coolant reservoir with a 50/50 mixture of GM Goodwrench DEX-COOL® or HAVOLINE® DEX-COOL® and clean, drinkable water.

    Important:  If the coolant temperature indicator turns ON, turn the engine OFF immediately and allow the engine to cool. Do NOT remove the radiator cap.

  11. Start the engine and allow the engine cooling fan to cycle on and off 3 times.
  12. Turn off the ignition.
    Fig 7: Closing Air Bleed Valve On Thermostat Housing
    G01500940Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.