Tools and materials needed:
- --------------------------------
- New thermostat
- ------------------------------------------------------------
- A new coolant gasket (if necessary)
- ------------------------------------------------------------
- Socket set
- ------------------------------------------------------------
- Wrench set
- ------------------------------------------------------------
- Pliers
- ------------------------------------------------------------
- Screwdriver
- ------------------------------------------------------------
- Funnel
- ------------------------------------------------------------
- Coolant (50/50 mixture of antifreeze and water)
Instructions:
- -----------------
- Allow the engine to cool down completely.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Locate the thermostat housing, which is usually near the top of the engine. It is a round or oval-shaped housing with a hose attached to it.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Place a drain pan under the thermostat housing to catch any coolant that may spill.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Remove the bolts holding the thermostat housing in place using the socket set and/or wrench set. These are usually 10 mm or 12 mm bolts.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Remove the thermostat housing and gasket. Be careful not to drop the thermostat into the engine block.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Inspect the thermostat. If the thermostat is stuck in the closed position, it will need to be replaced.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Install the new thermostat and gasket. Make sure the thermostat is installed with the correct orientation. Consult the service manual for the correct orientation of the thermostat.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Replace the thermostat housing and secure the bolts. Tighten the bolts securely, but do not over-tighten them.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Add coolant using a funnel until the reservoir is full.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for leaks around the thermostat housing.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down.
- -----------------------------------------------------
- Check the coolant level again and top it off if necessary.
Replacing the thermostat in your 1999 Mazda Protege should address the overheating issue. If the overheating persists, there may be another underlying problem that needs to be diagnosed.
