New Thermostat

[Derrick Rucker]

Later today I'm going to be getting a new thermostat and installing it. I know how to do the job and everything but I've seen some people say they have bought a brand new one and it be bad and have to get another one and replace it again so my question is: is there anyway to check the new thermostat for defects or anything before I install it or do I have to install it and get everything put back together and hope for the best?

 

[littleblazer]

Put it in a pot of water and see when it opens up as you heat it. Keep a thermometer on it. I've seen that suggested.

 

[Mooseman]

Be sure you get only an ACDelco.

 

[Derrick Rucker]

Yeah I was definitely getting a ac delco brand

 

[Derrick Rucker]

Also would it be easier to go through the driver side fender well since I wouldn't have to fool with taking off the alternator and all that?

 

[DAlastDON]

Its possible with some extensions. Was the way i had to access the firewall side bolt.

 

[northmick]

rucker was right us boiling water and a thermomitor to make sure it opens at 190. acdelco is always a good brand to know the truth thow GM does consider them aftermarket. also acdelco is 100% reboxing company they don't make anything. just don't go cheep

 

[Mounce]

I went from the top and it wasn't bad. Hardest part is getting the alternator out.

Couldn't believe how easy it was compared to what everyone makes it out to be.

 

[07TrailyLS]

Just did mine last weekend from the top. Remove your belt and remove the black bracket just above the alternator. It has three 15 mm bolts. You'll DEFINITELY need a 15 mm open ended wrench to get onto the bottom alternator bolt. If you get a socket onto it without breaking the steel line that sits directly in front of it, hats off to ya.

 

[Derrick Rucker]

Thanks guys I'll be doing it this weekend I got the thermostat today

 

[Sparky]

I went from the top and it wasn't bad. Hardest part is getting the alternator out.

Couldn't believe how easy it was compared to what everyone makes it out to be.

I didn't find the alternator to be that terrible, yeah that bottom bolt is a bit of a nuisance but not that bad.

 

[Mounce]

I had more issues with getting to the bolts on the lift bracket than any other. Wobble extensions were my savior.

 

[Mooseman]

A ratchet wrench, rather than a traditional wrench, for that bottom bolt is also a savior.

 

[AtlWrk]

A ratchet wrench, rather than a traditional wrench, for that bottom bolt is also a savior.

If you have time to prepare, a single 15mm ratchet wrench can be had on Amazon for $5-8 and is absolutely key to making alternator removal painless.
Hardware stores have sets in the ~$30 range.