How to Install a Thermostat in a Bronco II 2.8L V6

The thermostat on a Bronco II with a 2.8-liter engine is located in the bottom radiator hose connection to the thermostat housing on the engine. Draining the antifreeze is necessary. Indicators that the thermostat is going bad are little flow seen in the radiator, overheating while driving at cruising speed and overheating at a stop. The thermostat on the 2.8-liter has a 195-degree opening.

Things You'll Need

• Floor jack
• Jack stands
• Pliers
• Drain pan
• Common screwdriver
• 3/8-inch drive ratchet
• Set of 3/8-inch drive sockets
• New thermostat with gasket
• RTV silicone sealant
• Antifreeze

Instructions

1. Open the radiator cap to vent the radiator. Raise and support the vehicle on jack stands. Open the drain on the bottom of the radiator using the pliers. Drain all the antifreeze into a drain pan. If an aftermarket radiator has been installed without a drain, the lower hose must be removed to drain the radiator.

2. Remove the lower radiator hose by loosening the clamp at the thermostat housing with a common screwdriver for an adjustable clamp or pliers for a spring clamp.

3. Remove the two bolts securing the thermostat to the engine using the appropriate size socket. Pull the thermostat housing off the mounting surface, and extract the rubber O-ring and the thermostat.

4. Clean the gasket residue from the thermostat housing. Spread RTV sealant in a small bead on the thermostat housing and install the new gasket. Install the O-ring in the groove in the thermostat housing.

5. Slide the thermostat into the engine with the spring side facing the engine. Install the thermostat housing with its two bolts. Tighten the thermostat housing bolts securely. Install the lower hose and tighten the clamp. Lower the vehicle. Fill the radiator with a 50-percent mix of water to antifreeze, and replace the cap.