A simple job but it can get ugly. I cracked two housings before I figured out that the Stant Premium thermostat (195 deg) was manufactured slightly too large. It looked like it was seated in the recess but the bottom lip hung up on the edge. I had to grind it down.
When you tackle this job, you'll likely have better success removing the upper rad hose and heater hose from the thermostat hsg. A lot easier to clean up the surfaces. I prefer a Roloc Bristle disc in 80 grit which is suitable for aluminum. Prob have to use a small wire wheel on the head unless you have the shroud off. Also partially remove the belt so you'll have free access when reassembling. If you want extra insurance, use a good quality FelPro gasket and anaerobic dressing.
Here's the important part; hand tighten each bolt, then go back and forth 1/2 turn at a time until you reach the factory spec of 15 ft lbs. I found out the hard way that these are very brittle. No wonder so many parts stores stock them.
When you tackle this job, you'll likely have better success removing the upper rad hose and heater hose from the thermostat hsg. A lot easier to clean up the surfaces. I prefer a Roloc Bristle disc in 80 grit which is suitable for aluminum. Prob have to use a small wire wheel on the head unless you have the shroud off. Also partially remove the belt so you'll have free access when reassembling. If you want extra insurance, use a good quality FelPro gasket and anaerobic dressing.
Here's the important part; hand tighten each bolt, then go back and forth 1/2 turn at a time until you reach the factory spec of 15 ft lbs. I found out the hard way that these are very brittle. No wonder so many parts stores stock them.
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