Questioni have a 95 chevy lumina 3.1 that seems to run hot there are no leaks in radiator,hoses,etc i beleive it may be the thermostat how do i check and replace?
AnswerHi Jamie Constancio,
I believe your right. I would look at thermostat first. Then if that doesn't work, check for collapsing hose, then consider radiator. Lastly, consider the cooling fans.
The only way to check thermostat is to remove it and put it in boiling water. You want to see if it opens and closes. However, even if it does operate, you don't know if it is operating correctly. It may not open enough, or at the right temp. They are so cheap, it is typical that you just put a new one in and see if it helped.
You trace the upper hose back to the motor, and you will find the thermostat under a 'gooseneck' housing. Two or three bolts and just lift the housing up. Pull out the old thermostat and clean off any residue and old gasket pieces. Put in the new thermostat and a new gasket. If you use a sealant, only seal the side of the gasket that meets the 'gooseneck'. No sealant on the motor side. Tighten the bolts snugly, and your done. Refill the system with coolant. Remember to bleed off the system using the two bleeders.
Before you start any repairs, make sure you are not just low on coolant.
C J S
