Does my thermostat need a gasket?
Most new thermostats come with their own gaskets or rubber seal, but not all. So check that your new thermostat includes one; otherwise, buy one. Remember that you may need to apply sealant to the new gasket—check your vehicle service manual. Some thermostats come with a rubber seal instead of a traditional gasket.
Does thermostat gasket go on top or bottom?
it goes in the thermostat housing on the lower intake directly to the left of the distributor. There’s 2 bolts holding on the housing where the upper radiator tube goes into the lower intake.
What happens if you install a thermostat backwards?
If you installed the thermostat backwards, it would probably not open up enough to allow coolant to flow, and the temp gauge would shoot up into the far right range, the engine would overheat, etc. After doing its thing, the coolant flows through the upper hose to the radiator where it releases the heat.
Do you have to drain the radiator to change a thermostat?
With a normal top-mounted thermostat you need drain only part of the cooling system . Do not drain it while the engine is hot — you may be scalded. Drain the coolant from the radiator tap, or from the bottom hose, until it is below the level of the thermostat housing.
Can I drive without a thermostat?
Most automobile mechanics will tell you it is not a good idea to drive your car without a thermostat installed. If your thermostat becomes stuck in the closed position, though, this will cause your engine to overheat and make driving your car impossible.
Will my engine run cooler without a thermostat?
It’s purpose is to keep the engine at the proper operating temperature. When the engine gets too hot, the thermostat opens up and lets the engine coolant flow through the radiator, where it cools off. If the computer thinks the engine is cold–and it WILL be cold without a thermostat–it’ll richen the fuel mixture.