Thermostat - Mechanical Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Pickup, 2003 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford F450 Super Duty, 2003 Ford Excursion, and 2003 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Remove the coolant thermostat.
- Check the coolant thermostat for seating. Hold the coolant thermostat up to a lighted background. Leakage of light around the thermostat valve at room temperature indicates that the coolant thermostat should be replaced. Some coolant thermostats have a small leakage notch at one location on the perimeter of the thermostat valve, which is considered normal.
- Immerse the coolant thermostat in a boiling antifreeze and water mixture.
- See the General Specifications chart for coolant thermostat opening temperatures.