Chrysler Repair: thermostat replacement:2.5L V-6, chrysler cirrus, 2000 chrysler cirrus

Question
how do you change the thermostat in a 2000 Chrysler Cirrus Lxi

Answer
I assume you have the 2.5L V-6.   
If you start at the coolant filler neck at its base, go toward the driver's side where you will pass the temp sensor on the top of housing and then a little further in the same direction you will see an elbow with a large water hose, held in place on the front of the same housing by 3 bolts. Remove those bolts and the housing and there you will find the thermostat. It may be hidden underneath the large air inlet tube.
To remove, drain the system till you believe that you have lowered to the housing level (maybe about 3 quarts, collect in a pan and save for reuse). Before you do the draining procedure, start the engine and turn the heater setting to full heat so as to open the heater's water valve line. Then turn off the engine. Then open the radiator drain and watch for overflow bottle to drain first, then open filler cap to drain the required amount to get the level down to the thermostat housing level. (Draining it this way will help prevent air bubbles in the system). Then remove the elbow and clean the surfaces,note the position of the old thermostat, then put in new thermostat with the vent notch facing upward, check o-ring or gasket as case may be, then install the elbow tightening bolts to about 9 foot pounds, then refill the system thru the filler neck and add additional to the overflow bottle. Start the engine and check for leaks at the housing.
Roland