I'm gonna replace the thermostat on the 99 2.2, and I've got some questions.
First, what is the torque spec on the thermostat housing bolts (the ones that connect the hose to the radiator)?
Second, can I bleed the cooling system by running the car to temp with the rad cap off, or the overflow tank cap off? If not, can someone give me pictures and a little how too with pics? I need the pics cause I'm much better at doing something when I see it done.
Third, Will a new thermostat come with a new seal?
Forth, The coolant needs to be replaced, but I can't completely flush it myself. Can I get away with just disconnecting the rad hose and remove/install the thermostat connect the hose, and then bleed the system? Or should I drain the radiator, and just fill it back up with coolant and be done with it?
Fifth, What should I do with the old coolant? Will oil change places take it? I know by law in NYS they have to dispose of waste oil, but what about coolant?
Thanks everybody. I've never done a thermostat before. I have mechanical knowledge, but I want all my questions answer first, so I don't end up scratching my head half way through.
1. snug. i dont know the exact spec, but they're small bolts. we're talking inch-pounds, not foot pounds.
2. some have done it that way (up to temp with the overflow cap off) but this weekend while i was replacing my lifters, when i was done, i just took out the bleeder screw and filled the reservoir until it came out. put the screw back in, lifted the coolant bottle, it drained out, so i knew i could add more, and did. repeated the process until i could get no more in there. took like 5 minutes.
3. no.
4. drain it, fill it up with clean water, run it for 5 minutes, drain it, change thermo, add new 50/50 mix.
5. call around. whatever you do, DONT just leave it outside your local parts place. we HATE that. if we see you doing it, we WILL report you to the local authorities and the EPA.
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Rich Grayo Jr. wrote:
5. call around. whatever you do, DONT just leave it outside your local parts place. we HATE that. if we see you doing it, we WILL report you to the local authorities and the EPA.
Thanks man.
And I would never just leave it some place. That's just not cool.
It seems like I can only get a package of thermostat seals from the parts store. They sell them in packs of ten. Can't figure out why I can't get just one.
