Replacement and Interchange Numbers
The LEAPTIGER kit is commonly associated with:
- Airtex AW6009
- GMB 130-9670
- Gates 45010
- G9670B
- GM 12587305
- GM 12600767
- GM 12681417
- GM 19208815
- GM 19253263
- ACDelco 251-713
- ACDelco 252-901
GM’s later 19434033 water-pump kit replaces GM numbers 12681417 and 19208815 and includes a thermostat and thermostat housing for specified applications. Refer to the GM 19434033 application information when comparing components.
Product Features
- Direct-fit mechanical water pump
- Preinstalled thermostat
- Two metal water-pump gaskets
- Additional thermostat or housing gasket
- Designed for compatible GM V8 cooling systems
- Intended to restore normal coolant circulation
- Tested under the manufacturer’s quality-control process
- Manufactured and packaged by LEAPTIGER
- One-year product warranty
- 30-day refund policy
Why Replace the Thermostat With the Pump?
The water pump circulates coolant while the thermostat regulates flow to the radiator. Replacing both can be worthwhile when:
- The thermostat’s age is unknown
- The engine has overheated
- The original thermostat is sticking
- The thermostat housing is leaking
- The vehicle has high mileage
- The cooling system is already drained
- Contaminated coolant has circulated through both components
For help distinguishing the symptoms, read our guide comparing a bad thermostat with a bad water pump.
Metal Water-Pump Gaskets
The kit includes two metal gaskets that seal the pump’s left and right mounting surfaces to the engine. These gaskets must be installed on clean, flat mating surfaces.
During installation:
- Remove the old gaskets completely
- Avoid scratching the aluminum sealing surfaces
- Confirm the new gaskets face the correct direction
- Keep the sealing beads clean and dry
- Use sealant only when required by service information
- Tighten bolts in the specified pattern
- Use the correct torque specification
Do not reuse the original metal gaskets. They have already completed their tour of duty.
Signs the Original Water Pump May Be Failing
Common symptoms include:
- Coolant leaking from the front of the engine
- Dried coolant around the pump housing
- Grinding or rumbling bearing noise
- Pulley wobble
- Repeated coolant loss
- Engine overheating
- Temperature-gauge fluctuations
- Weak cabin heat
- Sweet coolant odor
- Steam after driving
A hose, radiator, pressure cap, heater fitting, or thermostat can cause similar symptoms. Use our coolant-leak diagnostic guide before replacing the pump.
Installation Recommendations
General installation steps include:
- Allow the engine to cool completely.
- Disconnect the battery when required.
- Drain the coolant safely.
- Remove the intake duct, fan shroud, fan, belt, and other obstructing parts as necessary.
- Disconnect the radiator and heater hoses from the pump.
- Remove the original water pump.
- Clean and inspect the engine’s sealing surfaces.
- Compare the new and original pump castings.
- Verify the thermostat and outlet orientation.
- Install both metal gaskets.
- Tighten the pump bolts to the factory specification.
- Reinstall the hoses, pulley, belt, fan, and shroud.
- Refill with the specified coolant.
- Bleed trapped air from the cooling system.
- Pressure-test the system and inspect for leaks.
Installation access differs considerably between pickups, SUVs, vans, and cab-over commercial vehicles. Use service information for the exact model rather than assuming one Silverado video covers an Isuzu NPR. It does not.
Inspect Related Cooling Components
While the system is drained, inspect:
- Radiator hoses
- Heater hoses and fittings
- Expansion tank
- Pressure cap
- Serpentine belt
- Belt tensioner
- Idler pulleys
- Fan clutch or electric fans
- Radiator
- Coolant condition
If the coolant is contaminated or incompatible, follow our guide on how to flush a cooling system safely.
Coolant Requirements
Use coolant meeting the GM specification for the exact vehicle and model year. Do not select antifreeze solely by color.
Our guide to IAT, OAT and HOAT coolant types explains why chemistry and manufacturer approval matter.
Never remove a radiator or pressurized reservoir cap while the engine is hot. Coolant can cause severe burns, and used antifreeze is toxic to children and animals.
Warranty and Returns
LEAPTIGER advertises:
- One-year water-pump warranty
- After-sales customer support
- 30-day refund service
Keep the purchase receipt and packaging. Verify whether the seller’s warranty covers return shipping, commercial service, labor, or related engine damage. Most aftermarket warranties cover only replacement of the defective component.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this kit fit a 2014–2020 Silverado 1500?
Not as a blanket application. Its primary Silverado 1500 coverage is 2007–2013. Later 1500 models commonly use newer EcoTec3 engines and different cooling components. Verify by VIN and interchange number.
Why does the product title say 2007–2020?
The latest applications primarily involve Express and Savana vans with the 6.0L V8. The year range does not apply equally to every listed model.
Does this fit a 2016–2017 Suburban?
The listed 6.0L application refers to the fleet-oriented Suburban 3500HD. Standard Suburban models require separate verification.
Does the kit include a thermostat?
Yes. The thermostat is preinstalled in the supplied assembly.
Are the water-pump gaskets included?
Yes. The package includes two metal water-pump gaskets and one additional gasket.
Does it fit a 6.6L Duramax?
No. Duramax diesel engines use a different pump and installation procedure.
Is this a genuine GM water pump?
No. This is an aftermarket LEAPTIGER replacement. OE and competitor numbers are provided only as interchange references.
Can a bad water pump cause overheating while towing?
Yes. Reduced coolant circulation or coolant loss can become more apparent under heavy engine load. However, radiator restriction, fan-clutch failure, low coolant, or combustion leakage can produce similar symptoms.
Final Verdict
The LEAPTIGER AW6009 kit provides the water pump, preinstalled thermostat, metal mounting gaskets, and additional seal required for many GM Gen IV V8 cooling-system repairs. Its broad coverage makes it useful for Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Yukon, Express, Savana, and related platforms—provided the exact engine and original pump configuration are verified first.
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