How to Replace the Thermostat in a Mustang
A new thermostat will improve the health of your Ford Mustang. It means that the coolant is flowing properly through all the channels in your motor. The thermostat is a valve that regulates your car's temperature. When the coolant starts getting hot, the thermostat releases the coolant and allows the coolant to cool down and the cool water will cool your motor, preventing it from overheating. A properly running thermostat will help prevent major repair bills in the future.
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Things You'll Need
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Socket wrench
- Socket set
- Putty knife
- Razor blade
Instructions
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Removing the Thermostat
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1
Open the hood. You will need to access the engine compartment to locate the thermostat.
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2
Remove the top radiator hose. You will need a Phillps head screwdriver to loosen the hose clamps on the hose.
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3
Trace where the radiator hose is attached to the motor. There is a housing the hose goes into.
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4
Remove the two bolts on top of the housing with a socket wrench. The housing will lift right out.
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5
Remove the thermostat with your fingers. The thermostat is not fixed, so it will lift right out.
Installing the New Thermostat
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6
Clean the edge where the housing sat. Scrape the old gasket material off with a putty knife or a razor blade. Clean all gasket residue off the housing and the piece that you removed.
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7
Place the new thermostat in the housing. Replace the same way the old one was removed.
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8
Place the new gasket on the housing. Make sure the gasket material sits flush on the housing. Match the holes on the gasket with the bolt holes on the housing.
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9
Put the housing back together. Bolt the housing back together.
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10
Attach the radiator hose to the housing and the other end back to the radiator. Tighten the hose clamps when the hose is securely in place.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Refill the coolant you lost while exchanging the thermostat.
Only work on the coolant system when car is cold. The coolant may be very hot and could burn you.
