How do I bleed air from the cooling system after installing the pump?
Documented on the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 build
Published August 30, 2026
Refill coolant with the engine cold, run the engine with the heater on high, open bleed screws if equipped, and top off the reservoir as air purges.
Full Answer
Refill coolant with the engine cold, run the engine with the heater on high, open bleed screws if equipped, and top off the reservoir as air purges. Allow the engine to reach operating temperature and recheck coolant levels, repeating until no air pockets remain.
Documented In This Build
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Related Parts
Water Pump
$150
Water Pump Gasket / Seal
$10
Engine Coolant (2 gallons estimate)
$30
Related Tools
Torque wrench
Socket set and ratchet
Pliers / screwdrivers
Drain pan
Serpentine belt tool / breaker bar
Funnel and coolant bleeding tools
Jack and jack stands (or ramps)
