Removal
1. Drain the cooling system as described in Chapter 1A or 1B.
2. If desired for improved access, remove the air cleaner and/or the air intake ducting as described in the relevant Part of Chapter 4. Similarly, remove the battery as described in Chapter 5A.
3. Where necessary, release any relevant wiring and hoses from the retaining clips and position clear of the thermostat housing to improve access.
4. Unscrew the retaining bolts, and carefully withdraw the thermostat housing cover to expose the thermostat. Take care not to strain the coolant hose connected to the cover (see illustrations). Note that the design of the thermostat housing varies between engine types, but the thermostat removal procedure for each type is similar.
4.4a. Unscrew the retaining bolts...
4.4b.... and withdraw the thermostat housing cover
5. On early models with a separate thermostat, lift the thermostat from the housing, noting which way round the thermostat is fitted, and recover the sealing ring (see illustration). On later models where the thermostat is an integral part of the housing cover, recover the sealing ring, release the retaining clip and remove the cover from the coolant hose.
4.5. Lift the thermostat from the housing
Testing
6. A rough test of the thermostat may be made by suspending it with a piece of string in a container full of water. Heat the water to bring it to the boil - the thermostat must open by the time the water boils. If not, renew it.
7. If a thermometer is available, the precise opening temperature of the thermostat may be determined; compare with the figures given in the Specifications. The opening temperature is also marked on the thermostat.
8. A thermostat which fails to close as the water cools must also be renewed.
Refitting
9. Refitting is a reversal of removal, bearing in mind the following points:
- a) Examine the sealing ring for signs of damage or deterioration and if necessary, renew.
- b) Ensure that the thermostat is fitted the correct way round, as noted before removal.
- c) Where applicable, refit the air cleaner and/or the air intake ducting, with reference to the relevant Part of Chapter 4.
- d) On completion, refill the cooling system as described in Chapter 1A or 1B.
