Pontiac Repair: Coolant leak, coolant leak, heater hoses

Question
QUESTION: There is a 90 degree elbow tube originating from under the front alternator bracket and turning into the engine block itself.  This is cracked and leaks when engine gets hot.  The car is a 97 Grand Prix, 3600 II.  What is this part, and what are some of the  difficulties in replacing it?
ANSWER: Hi
It is called a Coolant Bypass tube (I call it the bypass elbow). It goes from the lower intake to the belt tensioner.
Drain Coolant. Remove the alternator. You'll need to remove the old piece(Obviously) but make sure you remove all the pieces that may break off inside either the manifold or the tensioner or both. Get the new piece first so you can see how much may be left in engine (they USUALLY break off at the O Ring groove).
Then just install the new part, lube the New o rings with clean motor oil so they slide in easily.
If you have any doubts on doing this job, I would recommend taking it to a repair shop you know and letting them repair it professionally.
JUST ADVICE from experience.
Hope it helps
Good Luck
Paul



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I went ahead and took off the alternator to get a better look, and I can see where the 2 heater hoses attach to the belt tensioner/bracket assembly.  It looks like the coolant will flow through the bracket, and on through the tube.  My next question is, I see that the plastic tube needs to come out and the new one put in, but how?  I suspect that this whole bracket/tensioner will have to come out, since the heater water bypass return tube(so the dealership called it) is made of ridgid plastic.  If there is a better, easier way, please tell me.  I'm feeling desperate!  I don't think I should break the old piece and then hope I can wiggle the new one back into the holes!  Help!

Answer
Hi
The only trick I can remeber is to just LOOSEN, BUT do not REMOVE the tensioner assy.
the new piece can be installed at an angle, so when you retorque the tensioner, it will "twist" into place.
Lube the new o rings with motor oil.
DO NOT forget to remove all the old elbow. you may need to get a curved "dentist" type pick (should find one at Parts store, or a tool store like Sears, etc...)to assist you in removing pieces.
I really hope this helps.
Good Luck
JUST advice from experience.
Paul