Thermostat - Water, 3.0L: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Drain the cooling system. For additional information, refer to COOLING SYSTEM DRAINING, FILLING & BLEEDING - 3.0L & 4.0L .
Remove the upper radiator hose (8260) from the water outlet connection.

Fig 1: Removing Upper Radiator Hose
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the bolts, the water outlet connection and the water thermostat (8575).

Fig 2: Removing Water Outlet Connection & Water Thermostat
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Use care when scraping thermostat housing-to-gasket mating surfaces. Gouges in aluminum could form leak paths.

Discard the gasket and clean the sealing surfaces.