Things to repair while engine is out.

[LargeSarge]

I have a 2005 GMC Yukon SLT 4wd. It has 188k miles. I am replacing the 5.3l engine with a 74k mile 2006 Yukon engine. The newer engine is getting the common seal/gasket upgrades like oil pan gasket, oil pick up o ring,intake manifold gasket and new injectors/o rings. I will also be replacing the trans cooler lines and steering shaft/plastic bearing. Is there anything else I should look at while I am in there?

 

[swathdiver]

I have a 2005 GMC Yukon SLT 4wd. It has 188k miles. I am replacing the 5.3l engine with a 74k mile 2006 Yukon engine. The newer engine is getting the common seal/gasket upgrades like oil pan gasket, oil pick up o ring,intake manifold gasket and new injectors/o rings. I will also be replacing the trans cooler lines and steering shaft/plastic bearing. Is there anything else I should look at while I am in there?

Motor mounts? Torque converter?

 

[Sam Harris]

Rear main, oil pump, timing set, water pump, perhaps some top end upgrades?

 

[Joseph Garcia]

Any steering column work, if needed.

 

[Mudsport96]

Retain the 05 throttle body as i believe it is 06 when gm changed pin locations on them.

 

[03yukXL]

Trans lines tend to leak on those at the flex fitting. Far easier to replace with the motor out. Same goes for any repairs for power steering lines, steering box, idler arm etc. use ARP bolts on the exhaust manifolds. Replace intake and lifter valley gaskets.

 

[NickTransmissions]

I have a 2005 GMC Yukon SLT 4wd. It has 188k miles. I am replacing the 5.3l engine with a 74k mile 2006 Yukon engine. The newer engine is getting the common seal/gasket upgrades like oil pan gasket, oil pick up o ring,intake manifold gasket and new injectors/o rings. I will also be replacing the trans cooler lines and steering shaft/plastic bearing. Is there anything else I should look at while I am in there?

Rebuild the transmission if it hasn't yet been rebuilt. If at 188k it's on borrowed time.

 

[OR VietVet]

Belts and hoses, hose tee's if they are there, thermostat and IMO radiator for the new engine-especially if the existing radiator is the original one and knock sensors.

Man oh man I love spending other people's money.

 

[S33k3r]

Check for brittle wiring in the engine bay, and replace any suspect runs. Perform "the big three" wiring upgrade. Check the windshield wiper fluid reservoir and the tubing going to/from it. We've had to replace them on some of our trucks. Replacing that stuff is likely easier with the engine out. Checking it definitely is.

You might want to take a close look at your battery tray. If it's rusty, either replace it or clean it up and rattle can it to prevent further/future rust.

Take a look at your exhaust system. Maybe replace the header studs so they don't crack/break on you later.

 

[Sam Harris]

Check for brittle wiring in the engine bay, and replace any suspect runs. Perform "the big three" wiring upgrade. Check the windshield wiper fluid reservoir and the tubing going to/from it. We've had to replace them on some of our trucks. Replacing that stuff is likely easier with the engine out. Checking it definitely is.

You might want to take a close look at your battery tray. If it's rusty, either replace it or clean it up and rattle can it to prevent further/future rust.

Take a look at your exhaust system. Maybe replace the header studs so they don't crack/break on you later.

Great thoughts. I’ve had to patch up my washer lines a few times, and it’s a PITA getting to them. I am currently without that function, as my “patch” has failed again, and I haven’t taken the time to install the new line I finally bought. (Where the heck is that anyway…?)

 

[S33k3r]

Great thoughts. I’ve had to patch up my washer lines a few times, and it’s a PITA getting to them. I am currently without that function, as my “patch” has failed again, and I haven’t taken the time to install the new line I finally bought. (Where the heck is that anyway…?)

I forget where you are, but if it isn't too far away, I'd be happy to help (not like you need it).

 

[blueinkd]

great thread!! Keep the ideas coming, but I will also start my own to not hijack this one.

 

[V327839]

Since mine failed miserably, I will recommend the heater hose connectors(and hoses). The plastic tee and the heater core connectors get brittle and crack. Replace it all now and save on another coolant replacement.

 

[mountie]

A long time ago, ( In a city far far away) I replaced a Northstar engine in my " just bought used with a rod knock", a perfect '93 Cadillac STS. While the engine was out, I went through everything that would have been hard to reach. CLEANED everything, and detailed new engine, inspected & heat-protect wrapped all fluid lines, and re covered all the wiring.

I can see on my '05 Yukon, the wires near the upper suspension, etc., ..the factory covering was brittle & exposing the wires. Plus, clean-de grease the suspension stuff....