Parts needed:
* Replacement Thermostat
* Thermostat Gasket
* Coolant (Check your owner's manual for the recommended type and amount of coolant)
* Tools:
* Socket set
* Wrench set
* Phillips head screwdriver
* Flat head screwdriver
* Pliers
* Funnel
* Rags or towels
Procedure:
1. Cool Down Engine: Allow the engine to cool down completely before beginning. The thermostat and coolant are extremely hot during engine operation and can cause severe burns.
2. Locate Thermostat: The thermostat is located in the upper part of the engine, typically on the driver's side near the front.
3. Disconnect Battery: As an added safety precaution, it's recommended to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent accidental starting of the engine while working.
4. Drain Coolant:
- Place a drain pan under the radiator.
- Locate the radiator drain plug (usually a plastic petcock near the bottom of the radiator).
- Open the drain plug and allow the coolant to drain into the pan.
- When the coolant stops flowing, close the drain plug.
5. Remove Air Cleaner Housing:
- Remove the air cleaner cover and air filter.
- Unbolt the air cleaner housing from the engine.
6. Remove Thermostat Housing:
- Take note of the location of the upper radiator hose and thermostat housing before removing.
- Using a wrench or pliers, loosen and remove the bolts or clips that hold the upper radiator hose to the thermostat housing.
- Move the hose aside to access the thermostat housing bolts.
- Use a socket wrench to loosen the bolts holding the thermostat housing to the engine.
7. Replace Old Thermostat:
- Remove the thermostat housing.
- Be careful not to spill any remaining coolant.
- Remove the old thermostat from the housing.
- Clean the housing of any old gasket material.
8. Install New Thermostat:
- Place the new thermostat into the housing.
- Ensure the thermostat is properly seated and facing the correct direction (refer to the owner's manual).
- Install a new gasket between the thermostat and the housing.
9. Reattach Thermostat Housing:
- Reattach the thermostat housing to the engine.
- Tighten the bolts to the specified torque (check owner's manual).
- Reattach the upper radiator hose to the thermostat housing.
10. Refill Coolant:
- Use a funnel to carefully pour the recommended type and amount of coolant into the radiator.
- Refill the coolant reservoir if necessary.
11. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery if it was disconnected earlier.
12. Start Engine and Check:
- Start the engine and let it warm up.
- Check for leaks around the thermostat housing.
- Confirm the engine temperature gauge reads within the normal range.
13. Replace Air Cleaner Housing:
- Bolt the air cleaner housing back into place.
- Reinstall the air filter and air cleaner cover.
Note:
- It is recommended to bleed the cooling system to remove any trapped air. Refer to your owner's manual for the proper bleeding procedure.
- Make sure to dispose of the old coolant properly, as it can be harmful to the environment.
It is important to ensure safety throughout the process, especially when handling hot engine parts and coolant. If you are unsure about any of the steps or uncomfortable performing the task, it's best to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or refer to a repair manual specific to your vehicle model.
