if you just want to change the belt put 1/4" drive extension into the tensioner to release belt,then you need to take tensioner off...2 10mm bolts...remove tensioner & slip belt off...you may have to remove air ductwork for access
In a housing that attaches to the water pump at the rear of the engine. Follow the top radiator hose down to the water outlet on the engine. The stat is in the water outlet. AT THE END OF THE UPPER RADIATOR HOSE ( ENGINE END)
On the Northstar engine, the water pump is on the RIGHT side of the engine (looking at it from the front. If you look from the left (Drivers) side fender, it's right in front of you- You'll see the water pump drive belt running off the forward camshaft.
For a 1995 Cadillac Eldorado with a V8 Northstar engine, it's essential to use a high-quality coolant that meets the specifications for GM vehicles. A good choice is a 50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol-based coolant and distilled water, or you can use a pre-mixed coolant designed for GM cars, often labeled as Dex-Cool. Ensure that the coolant is compatible with aluminum engines, as the Northstar has aluminum components. Always check the owner's manual for any specific recommendations.
Right off the water pump, upper hose, right side of engine (from the front)
The 1997 Cadillac Eldorado with a Northstar engine typically requires about 7 to 8 quarts of antifreeze for a complete coolant system fill, which is roughly 1.75 to 2 gallons. It's important to use the appropriate type of antifreeze, usually a mixture of 50% antifreeze and 50% distilled water, to ensure proper engine function and protection. Always consult the owner's manual for specific recommendations.
waterpump or radiator hose
yes $100 from snap on
Driver's side, front upper corner of the engine. It is driven by a small belt. The water pump requires a special tool to remove and install from housing.
DO NOT FLUSH the coolant system on a northstar. Drain the coolant, replace with 50/50 Dexcool and fresh clean water, and you're good to go. Especially NEVER NEVER buy a "Coolant Flush" at a dealer or quicky-lube place. All you'll get is the previous sucker's engine gunk pumped in to your engine.
The factory recommends a 50/50 mix of clean water and Dexcool or similar (the "orange") stuff. This mix will protect the Northstar for up to 5 years. If you ever have used the "green" stuff (e.g. Non Dexcool) then you can go back to the Dexcool, but you'll have to change every two years or so.
The crossover is part of the housing that the water pump sits in. If you look at the engine from the drivers side the center of it is under the throttle body. It stretches across the engine over the transmission. It displaces coolant on either side of the engine. There are ports on each side.
The engine itself is VERY reliable. The problem is usually electronics in the car. I have had my 98 Deville for years and never had any engine problems. I have had to replace the water pump, thermostat, and power steering pump. Hope that helps...