The thermostat on your 2003 Tahoe is located inside of the intake manifold and is one of the easier thermostats to replace. Because the Tahoe is a full-sized SUV capable of hauling a large payload, the engine is constantly under stress; and if the cooling system is not working properly, the engine could overheat and leave you stranded. Changing the thermostat only requires a few basic tools, and the parts needed only cost a few dollars.
Instructions
- 1
Locate the thermostat housing by following the radiator hose from the radiator to the engine block. The metal cover that the hose attaches to is the Tahoe's thermostat housing.
2Remove the radiator hose retention clip by manually squeezing the clip tabs together. With the tabs together, pull the hose off the thermostat housing. Drain the fluid from the hose by holding the hose in the air. The fluid will drain back into the radiator.
3Remove the thermostat housing by taking off the two bolts with a boxed wrench. Lift the hosing off the engine to expose the thermostat.
4Pull the old thermostat out of the Tahoe's intake manifold. Place the new one into the intake manifold with the spring-loaded end inside of the intake.
5Replace the old thermostat gasket with a new one. The gasket must remain dry during the installation process.
6Place the thermostat housing on top of the thermostat gasket and bolt it into place.
7Squeeze the radiator hose retention clip tabs together and slide the hose back onto the thermostat housing. Let go of the tabs to secure the hose into place.
