Buy GMC Sierra 1500 Radiators

• 1999-2025 Sierra 1500 trucks (gas or diesel) use a cross-flow aluminum core with molded plastic end-tanks. (Wikipedia)
• 2014-2018 radiators share dimensions; 2019-2025 models are slightly wider and thinner. (GM-Trucks.com)
• Max Trailering (NHT/NHTZ82) trucks get a high-capacity radiator, part 84207656 replacing 84207654. (GM-Trucks.com)

• Capacity: 16.6 - 16.9 qt (15.7-16 L) of 50/50 coolant + water. (GM-Trucks.com, Silverado Sierra)
• Cap pressure: 15 psi is standard; 20 psi optional but only with heavy-duty caps. (Silverado Sierra, Amazon)
• Drain-plug torque: 18 lb-ft; lower hose clamp 44 lb-in; block drain 44 lb-ft. (Silverado Sierra, Pace Performance)

• Stress-fracture leaks at the tank seam on 2014-2018 trucks; covered under GM Special Coverage 15829 (5 yr/100 000 mi). (GM-Trucks.com, NHTSA)
• Clogged fins from mud or bugs reduce airflow and raise engine temps. (Fleetgo)
• Cap spring fatigue lowers system pressure, letting coolant boil sooner. (Silverado Sierra)

• Temp gauge moving to the red, steam under the hood, sweet coolant smell, or "Hot Coolant" dash alert are early clues. (The Sun, Christian Brothers Automotive)
• Orange-pink puddle means Dex-Cool is dripping from the core seam. (GM-Trucks.com)

• Blow debris from fins with low-pressure air and a soft brush each oil change. (Fleetgo)
• Flush and refill every 5 yrs/150 000 mi with GM-approved Dex-Cool. (GM Insider News, Bob Is The Oil Guy)
• Replace the radiator cap about every 5 years to keep pressure correct. (The Sun)

1. Cool engine fully, then open the 18 lb-ft drain plug. (Silverado Sierra)
2. Catch old coolant for recycling; many auto-parts stores accept it.
3. Close plug, pour in distilled water, run heater on high 10 min, and drain again. (GM-Trucks.com)
4. Refill with 50/50 Dex-Cool mix, idle to burp air, top off surge tank to "Full Hot" line.

• Labor time averages 2.8 hours on a 2014 5.3 L 4×4 truck. (JustAnswer)
• Remove skid plate, disconnect fan shroud, trans-cooler lines, then lift the radiator assembly straight up.
• Always install new O-rings on quick-connect fittings and torque clamps per spec. (Silverado Sierra)

• Typical full replacement: $1,457 - $1,793 (parts + labor). (RepairPal.com)
• Radiators usually last ~80 000 mi before plastic end-tanks age-crack. (RepairPal.com)

• All-aluminum, two-row cores dissipate heat faster and resist plastic seam failures.
• Adding an external trans cooler offloads heat from the radiator when towing heavy. (Fleetgo)

• Use orange Dex-Cool or any HOAT coolant labeled "DEX-COOL Approved." (Bob Is The Oil Guy)
• Stick with 15 psi unless a tuner or heavy-duty system specifies higher. (Silverado Sierra)

• Hot coolant can scald-let the truck cool at least 30 min before opening the cap. (The Sun)
• Dispose of used coolant at a certified recycling center-never pour it on the ground. (Christian Brothers Automotive)

Q: What does the radiator do?
A: It is a heat exchanger that moves engine heat into the air so your motor stays in the safe 190-220 °F range. (Wikipedia)

Q: How much coolant does a Sierra 1500 hold?
A: Around 16 - 17 quarts, including the surge tank. (GM-Trucks.com, Silverado Sierra)

Q: Which coolant should I use?
A: GM Dex-Cool or an equivalent orange HOAT coolant mixed 50/50 with distilled water. (Bob Is The Oil Guy)

Q: How often should I change coolant?
A: Every 5 years or 150 000 miles, whichever comes first. (GM Insider News)

Q: Does the towing package have a bigger radiator?
A: Yes-Max Trailering trucks use part 84207656 with larger core volume. (GM-Trucks.com)

Q: What are signs my radiator is failing?
A: Rising temp gauge, steam, sweet smell, or pink puddles under the front bumper. (The Sun, GM-Trucks.com)

Q: Why do 2014-2018 radiators crack?
A: Rapid thermostat cycling stresses the plastic tank seam; GM released Special Coverage 15829. (, NHTSA)

Q: How long should a factory radiator last?
A: About 80 000 miles with good maintenance. (RepairPal.com)

Q: What does replacement cost?
A: National average is $1.4k - $1.8k including labor. (RepairPal.com)

Q: Can I drive with a leaking radiator?
A: Only short distances to reach a safe spot; low coolant can ruin the engine. (The Sun)

Q: How often should I replace the cap?
A: About every five years or if pressure tests below 15 psi. (The Sun, Silverado Sierra)

Q: What pressure cap is correct?
A: 15 psi is factory; use 20 psi only if the system is rated for it.

Q: Can I flush the radiator at home?
A: Yes-drain, fill with water, run, drain again, then add fresh 50/50 coolant. (GM-Trucks.com)

Q: Do I need new hoses when I change the radiator?
A: Inspect for cracks; if hoses feel brittle or spongy, replace them at the same time. (RepairPal.com)

Q: How do I dispose of old coolant?
A: Take it to an auto-service recycler; never dump it because it is toxic to wildlife. (Christian Brothers Automotive)