How to Change a 1997 Windstar Thermostat

If the thermostat on your 1997 Ford Windstar fails in the closed position, the engine could overheat and cause the engine block to crack or engine heads to warp. At the least, the damage could cost hundreds; at the worst, a complete engine overhaul could cost thousands to repair. With aging vehicles, it is a good idea to replace the thermostat to prevent a failure that could possibly leave you and your family stranded along the side of the road.

Instructions

1

Trace the upper radiator hose from the radiator inlet to the T-Stat housing located on the engine block of the Windstar. The thermostat is located under the T-Stat housing.

2

Place a small container such as a glass jar under the radiator hose where the hose connects to the radiator inlet. Remove the clamp by squeezing the two tabs together with a pair of pliers. With the clamp loosened, pull the hose off and drain the contents into the jar. This prevents radiator fluid from getting all over the engine when you remove the hose from the T-Stat housing. Reconnect the radiator hose to the radiator inlet.

3

Loosen the radiator clamp that secures the radiator hose to the T-Stat housing in the same manner as before. Push the hose off to the side to gain access to the T-Stat housing.

4

Remove the two bolts that secure the T-Stat housing to the engine block and lift upward to remove the housing. Usually the gasket sticks to the bottom of the housing. However, it is possible that the gasket will stick to the engine block. Remove the gasket and discard it.

5

Pull the old thermostat out of the engine block and place the new one into the hole. The thermostat has a pin sticking out of one end. The pin faces out of the engine.

6

Place a new gasket onto the engine block, and then place the T-Stat housing on top of the gasket. Place the bolts back in and secure the housing to the Windstar's engine block.

7

Place the hose back onto the T-Stat housing and secure it into place with the radiator hose clamp.

8

Open the radiator cap and drain the fluid in the jar into the radiator. Tighten the radiator cap back onto the radiator.