- Replacement thermostat (correct temperature rating for your engine)
- Wrench set
- Pliers
- Drain pan
- Funnel
- Coolant
- Rags
Instructions:
1. Park the car on a level surface and allow the engine to cool down.
2. Locate the thermostat housing. On the 302 engine, it is located on the front of the engine, just below the upper radiator hose.
3. Place a drain pan under the thermostat housing.
4. Loosen the upper radiator hose clamp and remove the upper radiator hose. Be careful not to spill any coolant.
5. Remove the two bolts that hold the thermostat housing in place.
6. Lift the thermostat housing off the engine and remove the old thermostat. Be careful not to drop the old thermostat into the drain pan.
7. Clean the thermostat housing and mating surface on the engine block.
8. Install the new thermostat in the correct direction (the part with the small hole should be facing up).
9. Reinstall the thermostat housing and bolts. Tighten the bolts snugly, but do not over-tighten them.
10. Reattach the upper radiator hose and tighten the hose clamp.
11. Fill the radiator with coolant. Use a funnel to add coolant slowly to avoid spills.
12. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check the coolant level and add more if necessary.
> Note: It may be necessary to "burp" the cooling system to remove any trapped air. To do this, start the engine with the radiator cap off and let it run for a few minutes. You may see some bubbles coming out of the radiator. Once the bubbles stop, turn off the engine and replace the radiator cap.
