Thermostat: Service and Repair

REMOVAL
1. Set the vehicle on a lift.
2. Lift-up the vehicle.
3. Remove the under cover.
4. Drain engine coolant completely.





5. Disconnect the radiator hose from thermostat cover.





6. Remove the thermostat cover and then remove the thermostat.

INSTALLATION
1. Install the gasket to thermostat.

NOTE: Use a new gasket.





2. Install the thermostat and thermostat cover.

NOTE: The thermostat must be installed with the jiggle pin facing upward.

Tightening torque: 6.4 Nm (0.65 kgf-m, 4.7 ft. lbs.)
3. Connect the radiator hose to thermostat cover.
4. Install the under cover.
5. Lower the vehicle.
6. Fill with engine coolant.

INSPECTION
Replace the thermostat if the valve does not close completely at an ambient temperature or if the following test shows unsatisfactory results.
^ Inspection method

Immerse the thermostat and a thermometer in water. Raise water temperature gradually, and measure the temperature and valve lift when the valve begins to open and when the valve is fully opened. During the test, agitate the water for even temperature distribution. The measurement should conform to the specification.
Starting temperature to open: 80 - 84°C (176 - 183°F)
Fully opens: 95°C (203°F)





NOTE:
^ Leave the thermostat in the boiling water for more than five minutes before measuring the valve lift.
^ Hold the thermostat with a wire or the like to avoid contacting with container bottom.