finish post

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2026-01-14 12:52:54 -06:00
parent b769ba9dfb
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categories = ["vehicle"]
date = 2026-01-03T16:00:00Z
date = 2026-01-06T16:00:00Z
description = ""
draft = false
slug = "2026-01-06-replace-thermostat"
@@ -8,40 +8,50 @@ title = "🌡️ Replacing Thermostat Housing Assembly"
author = "nicholas"
+++
The engine coolant temperature gauge reports temperatures that are too low. The engine never reaches the proper operating temperature. The cabin air heating system produces only slightly hotter-than-ambient air. The upper radiator hose begins to warm immediately on starting the car. These are all symptoms of a thermostat that is stuck in the open position.
The engine coolant temperature gauge reports temperatures that are too low. The engine never reaches the proper operating temperature. The cabin air heating system produces only slightly hotter-than-ambient air. The upper radiator hose begins to warm immediately on starting the car. These are all symptoms of a thermostat that is stuck in the open position. I bought a new one from automotive store.
## 🛠️ Parts and equipment
I need a few tools and the replacement part:
- Murray Plus 221 Degree Thermostat Housing - 73021
- car ramp (2)
- wheel chocks (2)
- torx E10 socket
- torx T15 drive bit
- hex 10mm socket
- flat head screwdriver
- phillips head screwdriver
- wrench
- ratchet
- clamp pliers
- hook pick
- drain pan
- DEX-COOL engine coolant
- automotive trim removal tool
- silicone tube (3/8 in ID)
## ⚙️ Process- drain coolant system
| step | tool(s) |
|---|---|
| position car on ramp | car ramps, wheel chocks |
| remove negative battery terminal clamp, disconnect | hex 10mm socket, ratchet |
| remove air filter hose | flathead screwdriver |
| remove bottom hose | hook pick |
| unscrew bleeder valve completely | phillips screwdriver |
## ⚙️ Process
I need to drain the coolant system first, then I can replace the thermostat, and finally refill the coolant.
### drain coolant system
- place car onto ramp, place wheel chocks under rear wheels
- remove negative battery terminal clamp, disconnect
- remove engine splash shield
- place silicone drain hose over petcock nipple, place catch pan under hose
- unscrew coolant reservoir cap
- open petcock valve, drain coolant
- close petcock valve, remove tube, store used coolant
- replace splash shield
## ⚙️ Process - replace thermostat housing assembly
### replace thermostat housing assembly
- remove air filter hose
- remove positive crank ventilation hose
- remove sensor connector
- remove upper radiator hose
- remove thermostat housing assembly
- install replacement thermostat housing assembly
- replace all removed components
| step | tool(s) |
|---|---|
| remove negative battery terminal clamp, disconnect | hex 10mm socket, ratchet |
| remove air filter hose | flathead screwdriver |
| remove sensor connector | |
| remove positive crank ventilation hose | |
| remove upper radiator hose | hook pick |
| remove thermostat housing assembly | torx e10, ratchet |
I refill with new coolant and purge the coolant system of air.
Done.