How to Replace the Thermostat on a 2001 Grand Caravan

Replacing the thermostat is important for the operation of your 2001 Grand Caravan. The thermostat helps regulate the engine's temperature, allowing coolant to flow through as needed. It also helps bring the engine up to normal operating temperature in cold weather. When the thermostat becomes stuck in the closed or open position, it is time to have it replaced. If the thermostat is not replaced in time, it can cause the engine to overheat.

Instructions

1

Open the hood and disconnect the negative terminal cable from the battery. Locate the drain cock on the passenger's side of the radiator, along the bottom and position the catch pan underneath it.

2

Open the drain cock and allow the coolant to drain out of the coolant recovery pressure container. Leave the vent cap on the container while performing this step. After the fluid has completely drained out of the container, remove the cap to allow the rest of the coolant in the radiator to drain out. Replace the cap and close the drain cock afterward.

3

Locate the upper radiator hose on the top passenger's side of the radiator and trace it until it ends at the thermostat housing near the cylinder head. Remove the retaining clamp holding the upper radiator hose to the thermostat housing and slip the hose off.

4

Remove the bolts holding the thermostat housing in place. Lift the thermostat housing up and remove it to reveal the thermostat. Note the placement of the thermostat, and then remove it and the gasket. Scrape off any remaining gasket with a slotted screwdriver.

5

Install the new thermostat in the same position as the old thermostat and install the gasket over the mating surface. Lower the thermostat housing into place and use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to 250 in. lbs. Slip the upper radiator hose back onto the thermostat housing outlet and reattach the retaining clamp.

6

Remove the vent cap from the coolant recovery pressure container. Locate the air bleed screw on the thermostat housing and pour engine coolant into the container until a steady stream of it comes out of the air bleed. Tighten the air bleed screw when finished.

7

Move the catch pan out of the way and start the engine. Monitor the coolant level and fill as needed. Dispose of the old coolant in an environmentally-friendly manner.