rocketman

How difficult is the stock thermostat to replace? Does the Mugen replacement thermostat come with good (or any) directions?

NOTE: if you're wondering why I'm asking - I don't even know where the thermostat is on the car.

Prolene

The manual shows the torque specs for the bolts (nuts?). Other than that, it is mostly a drawing of the housing, etc. It doesn't say how to put your hands around the engine mount to get to it etc. You'll just have to experiment with how best to get the tools in to do the job.

Drain the coolant from the radiator first as well so it doesn't come pouring on you when you remove the thermostat like it did when I helped Mingster change his.

rocketman

Actually, that part I had figured out

That's OK, 'cause I was thinking I would put some Redline WaterWetter in there.

Pepe

The best way (and probably the only way) to change it is from under the car. You will need some of those flex socket adaptors and extensions because the bolts are very hard to get at. Even if you drain the whole system be prepare to get a splash of coolant.

cdelena

[QUOTE]Originally posted by cdelena
[B]You attack it from the bottom. I worked from far back with my head next to the transmission. I accessed the lower bolt from forward of the motor mount and the upper from behind. Worked with one hand forward and one behind the motor mount.

I

rocketman

I wonder how much my dealer would charge me to do this when he changes my oil

I was hoping this was a nice. simple, quick job.

Pixsurguy

Nice posts people. However, how useful do you think the Mugen thermostat really is?
Seems like pretty much a lot of fuss over not much. Might be useful in winter weather in cold climes, but would you need it in the south or SW?

Pepe

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Pixsurguy
[B]Nice posts people.

Tedster

rocketman,

I had my dealer install the Mugen thermostat for me, but it was part of an oil change/differential fluid change/etc. job, so I don't remember how much it was for just the thermostat. Fifty bucks?

Pixsurguy,

the idea behind putting in the Mugen thermostat is that it opens (starts circulating coolant) earlier (at a lower engine temperature) than the stock thermostat, to try to keep the engine from getting as hot.

Ted

rocketman

here you go (from www.kingmotorsports.com):

"This thermostat has the operating temperature set lower than normal. It prevents engine power loss by minimizing rapid water-temperature rises under harsh conditions such as during circuit driving. The use of a flow-control-type valve prevents hunting, thereby achieving rapid stabilization of the water temperature (the engine warms up within a short period).

Operating temperature: 68