Here's a breakdown of factors affecting the difficulty:
* Accessibility: Getting to the thermostat housing on these vans can be somewhat challenging due to its location and potential for tight spaces. You might need to work with your arms at awkward angles.
* Cooling System Pressure: You'll need to let the engine cool completely before working on it to avoid burns from hot coolant. Even then, there's still residual pressure in the system, so you'll need to carefully relieve that pressure before opening anything.
* Tools: You'll need basic hand tools, including sockets, wrenches, and possibly a ratchet. A drain pan for coolant is essential.
* Coolant: You'll likely lose some coolant during the process, so having fresh coolant on hand is a must.
* Potential for Leaks: If you're not careful, you could accidentally damage a hose or gasket while removing and reinstalling the thermostat housing.
In summary: If you're mechanically inclined and have done similar repairs before, it's a manageable job. Plenty of online resources (repair manuals, YouTube videos) can guide you through the process. However, if you're uncomfortable working on cars, it's probably best to have a qualified mechanic handle it. The cost of a professional repair is likely less than the cost of potential mistakes leading to more expensive repairs down the road.
