Thought about replacing thermostat while replacing water pump but can't see how to get to the lower bolt. Has anyone had success with this? Appreciate help on removal of shroud. Am also replacing radiator hoses. Having trouble getting to engine side clamp on lower hose. I am planning on trying the clamp removal tool that look like pliers with a cable. Fingers crossed.
2003 TB thermostat
- Thread starter JimCshoe
- Start date
DJones
Member
It helps to remove the alternator. With it out of the way, there is plenty of arm room to get the bottom bolt and to the hose.
Welcome! Those exact problems have been discussed in previous threads you might find using the search feature. The thermostat, for instance is easier if you tilt the alternator out of the way. If you have a good collection of socket extensions, especially wobble extensions, many members have reported success going in through the wheel well instead of from above. Adding to ones tool collection almost doesn't need any excuses. 
Getting the alternator out of the way was key. Made it all possible. Thanks. Using a couple of extensions joined together on a ratchet made removing and installing lower bolt (going through wheel well) no problem. I feel better having replaced thermostat.
Goad you're on the air again. Replacing the thermostat won't just help your peace of mind, but if you had the P0128 code, you were on your way to wasting hundreds of dollars in fuel, and risk burning out and clogging your cat from a too-rich mixture. A P0128 code is one of those that putting off fixing is misplaced frugality.
meerschm
Member
- Aug 26, 2012
- 1,079
how did the rest of the job go?
the fan and fan clutch should come off with the shroud. two bolts at the top, and it should lift off the mount. (pay attention to the bottom tabs when you put it back on)
if you loosen up the top rad mounting bolts and rock the rad a bit to the front you can get a little more room. is a tight fit past the top radiator hose tube on the top of the radiator.
the fan and fan clutch should come off with the shroud. two bolts at the top, and it should lift off the mount. (pay attention to the bottom tabs when you put it back on)
if you loosen up the top rad mounting bolts and rock the rad a bit to the front you can get a little more room. is a tight fit past the top radiator hose tube on the top of the radiator.