Late-model Chevrolet trucks use a large, white plastic radiator reservoir tank to remove air from the cooling system during heat expansion. The tank is sometimes a long, flat model that is tucked up underneath the engine computer, which can take the average backyard mechanic about an hour to remove.
Instructions
Replacing the Coolant Reservoir on a Chevrolet Truck
- 1
Drain the coolant reservoir by unplugging the small hose at the base and allowing the coolant to drain out. This hose is the return for the radiator that collects coolant when the pressure is high and returns it when the system is cooled down.
2Remove the engine computer on late models by unplugging the main connector and turning the mount bolts in a counterclockwise direction. The computer can be set aside. The two rear bolts are deep and connect the rear of the coolant reservoir to the fender.
3Remove the front-mount nut on the coolant reservoir, as well as the lower fender bolt below the return hose nipple.
4Pull the reservoir toward the top of the engine compartment and away from the fender.
5Replace the plastic tank with a fresh unit, and position it on the fender over the mount bolts.
6Secure the front-mount nut and lower fender bolt by turning them clockwise.
7Replace the computer and secure the rear-mount bolts in a clockwise direction. Plug the computer back into the wiring harness, if applicable.
8Replace the return hose to the nipple at the bottom of the tank.
9Refill the reservoir to the proper level of coolant.
