Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Thermo Element Replacement
2009 Chevrolet Impala V8-5.3LSECTION Thermo Element Replacement
Thermo Element Replacement
Tools Required
J 34094-A Thermo Element Height Gage
Removal Procedure
1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle (Service and Repair).
2. Remove the oil pan. Refer to Oil Pan Replacement (Service and Repair).
3. Remove the thermo element pins (120, 123) and the washers.
4. Remove the thermo element (121) and the thermo element plate (122).
Installation Procedure
1. Use the J 34094-A to set the middle thermo pin (123).
2. Install the new thermo element plate (122).
3. Install the pin (120) and the washer.
4. Use the J 34094-A to set the height of the pin and the washer furthest from the accumulator.
5. Use the J 34094-A to set the height of the second pin (120) and the washer.
6. Install the thermo element (121) between the two pins (120). The V in the thermo element (121) must contact the thermo element plate (122).
7. Install the oil pan. Refer to Oil Pan Replacement (Service and Repair).
8. Lower the vehicle.
Important: It is recommended that transmission adaptive pressure (TAP) information be reset. Resetting the TAP values using a scan tool will erase all learned values in all cells. As a result, The ECM, PCM or TCM will need to relearn TAP values. Transmission performance may be affected as new TAP values are learned.
9. Reset the TAP values. Refer to Transmission Adaptive Functions (Transmission Adaptive Functions).
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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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.