How to Change the Thermostat on a Jeep
- 1). Disconnect the negative (black) cable from the battery using a wrench.
- 2). Drain the cooling system by removing the drain plug with a wrench at the bottom of the radiator. Allow fluid to drain into drain pan.
- 3). Trace the upper radiator hose on the engine to locate the thermostat housing.
- 4). Loosen the hose clamps with a screwdriver. Detach the houses from the fittings using your hands. If the hoses are stuck, use a pair of pliers to twist and break the seal.
- 5). Remove the bolts from the thermostat housing using a wrench. Some coolant will spill out at the gasket seal is broken.
- 6). Note which end of the thermostat is facing out before removing it. The spring side is usually directed towards the engine. Use a shop towel to wipe all traces of the old gasket sealant from the housing.
- 7). Install the new thermostat into the housing.
- 8). Apply a thin coat of RTV sealant to both sides of the new gasket and place on the housing.
- 9). Install the housing cover and tighten the bolts using a wrench.
- 10
Reattach the hoses and fittings using your hands. - 11
Replace the radiator drain plug and hand tighten. Refill radiator with coolant. - 12
Replace negative (black) cable onto vehicle battery and tighten with wrench.
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