Heater core quick disconnect pipe - REINSTALLATION

[StreetsmartClassics]

I've searched the forum for an answer to my specific question, but couldn't find an answer, so here's my situation/question:

I'm reassembling the top end on my 97' Olds GM 3100 V6, after being determined to replace ALL gaskets (timing cover, LIM, UIM, oil drive, etc) to prevent oil/coolant leaks. The quick disconnect pipe fitting that threads into the back side of the thermostat housing had a plastic fitting inside of it, and like others here on the list, when I removed the metal pipe from it at disassembly, the internal plastic parts came out in pieces. I pulled the pipe out, cleaned off the end of it, and set it aside for reassembly. I purchased a new pipe fitting that has all the new plastic internals, but here lies my question: How do I go about installing the pipe back into the fitting? Do I need to remove the quick disconnect plastic piece from the new fitting, slide it onto the end of my pipe, and then try to insert the pipe and plastic piece back into the metal fitting...OR....is it as simple as leaving the plastic quick disconnect sleeve in the metal pipe fitting and pushing the heater pipe into it until it clicks or something? I can't find anything that says how to specifically reassemble this. A second question is....do I need to put some sort of RTV on the end of the pipe before I try to reinstall it, or is there an internal o'ring (like mentioned in other posts) that will automatically seal once the pipe is installed? I want to do this right and only once!

Thanks in advance!

[rich_e777]

It should just push in until it clicks, no RTV or sealant needed. Earlier version like my 1994 has everything nice and threaded down there so that could be a potential option to revert back to an older design. No size difference just no cheap POS plastic clip.

[StreetsmartClassics]

Thanks rich_e777. Does it take a decent amount of pressure to get the pipe to snap back into the fitting? Will I need to tap it in with something, or should I be able to press it in by hand? I tried a quick attempt at it last night, but it seemed like it was going to require some tapping, but I didn't want to put too much of anything on it until I knew for sure how to reinstall it!

[rich_e777]

Im not sure of the pressure it takes, wouldn't take an outstanding amount if it has a plastic clip. Make sure all the plastic bits are out first, there may be a piece blocking things up. There was a thread a few months back about it or a series of posts in the whatever thread.

 

This thread might help you out. http://www.w-body.com/showthread.php/19273-Coolant-line-disconnect-HELP!

 

I might have been thinking about something else as I have that clip and quick disconnect as well, Ive been working on a few different new to me cars recently.