How to Install a Thermostat in a 1996 Ford Explorer

A car's radiator thermostat is a mechanical device that controls the flow of coolant between the engine and the radiator by opening when the coolant reaches a certain temperature, allowing the coolant to flow into the radiator. If the thermostat on your 1996 Ford Explorer goes bad, the engine could overheat and potentially fail. Replacing the thermostat isn't very difficult, but it does require some safety precautions before you do it.

Instructions

1

Allow the vehicle to cool for five to six hours, or overnight, before working on the cooling system. Place a drain pan underneath the radiator and open the petcock on the base of the radiator to allow the radiator coolant to drain out. Once the radiator has drained, tighten the petcock.

2

Disconnect the heater hose lead to the thermostat housing using a flat-head screwdriver. Then unbolt the thermostat housing from the engine using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. With the thermostat housing out of the way, remove the thermostat.

3

Scrape off the old gasket from the engine block using a gasket scraper. Then apply the replacement gasket to the engine block, using a thin coating of water-resistant sealer on both sides of the gasket.

4

Place the thermostat on the engine block with the spring side toward the engine block, then reinstall the housing to the engine withe the housing bolts, using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Reinstall the heater return line using the flat-head screwdriver.

5

Open the radiator cap and fill the radiator using the 50-50 pre-diluted coolant. Then run the engine for 10 to 15 minutes with the heater controls on the high position. Allow the engine to cool for two hours, then top off the radiator with the coolant.