Separate old aluminium coolant pipes to replace O-Rings

[Willow5]

Hi,

 

My 2005 4.5l Cayenne last had replacement Aluminium coolant pipes done in 2010.  Since then, it has covered 100k so clearly need to renew the O rings.  Question: does anyone know how to separate the 3 pipes into the upper thermostat housing ? They seem to be well and truly stuck in there. I tried heating it a bit and only managed to move it a little bit out but I am concerned with the fragile Aluminium that I could damage them if I continue with brute force. 

[Willow5]

Hi there,

 

I can't believe no one doesn’t know how to safely separate these pipes as I have already damaged the delicate tabs on one set and now bought a replacement so don't want to damage another set. Is there a tool for this as right now I am totally defeated

[GSpence2]

 

[Willow5]

Thanks @GSpence2 although this guide mentions the three pipes, I couldn't find the part where it mentions separating the 3 pipes from the thermostat housing or did I miss something?

Edited October 1, 2020 by Willow5

[GSpence2]

I think you’re gonna need to employ a little ingenuity and care in separating them. Whatever you do I wouldn’t heat them. Perhaps you could DM the Admins for assistance. There are also some good videos on YouTube

[Willow5]

Thanks @GSpence2 I agree heat is not the right way to go. I am just surprised no one else has ever encountered this problem before. I also don't think brute force will work either as that is how I broke off the delicate tabs.  I saw one video on youtube which involved brute force hitting the tab with a hammer which I will not be doing. Any other suggestions?

[GSpence2]

Prayer 🙏🙏🙏

Or a good independent