Thermostat Test Procedure Using Glycol
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 GMC Sierra, 2002 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2002 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2002 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Inspect the operation of the thermostat by hanging the thermostat on a hook in a 50/50 percent solution of DEX-COOL® and clean drinkable water.
In order to inspect if the thermostat valve is opening properly, perform the following test:
- Completely submerge the thermostat in the glycol solution. The solution should be 11°C (22°F) above the temperature indicated on the thermostat valve.
- Thoroughly agitate the solution. Under these conditions, the thermostat valve should open.
In order to inspect if the thermostat valve is closing properly, perform the following test:
- Completely submerge the thermostat in a glycol solution. The solution should be 6°C (10°F) below the temperature indicated on the thermostat valve.
- Thoroughly agitate the solution. Under these conditions, the thermostat valve should close completely.