Thermostat

1997 ACURA INTEGRA
4 CYL
Avatar
DANA_GUAM
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
How can I tell if a Thermostat is Bad? I just replaced it in Aug. of 2010. I have problems with my 1997 Acura Integra overheating. This morning I opened up my radiator cap and started the car and saw that the coolant was moving like it was running threw the radiator and engine. Dose that mean my Thermostat is open?
Mar 14, 2011 at 8:02 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 34,321 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Yup. It's circulating. It shouldn't do that until the engine is warmed up.
Mar 14, 2011 at 8:14 PM
Avatar
WRENCHTECH
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 20,761 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
The T-stat is at the end of the lower radiator hose. Feel the temp of that hose near the engine. If it's hot, the stat is open.
Mar 14, 2011 at 8:18 PM
Avatar
DANA_GUAM
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
How do I know if it needs to be replaced? When I pull it out can i blow it out with a air compressor and put it back in? Or dose it need to just be replaced?
Thanks So Much for your Answer.
Mar 14, 2011 at 8:18 PM
Avatar
WRENCHTECH
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 20,761 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Sorry Doc, we posted at the same time. You finish.
Mar 14, 2011 at 8:20 PM
Avatar
DANA_GUAM
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Thanks! When I remove the Thermostat, can i blow it out with a strong air pressure and re-use it? How do I know if it will close or stay open when I put it back in. Or is that not a good idea?
Thanks.
Mar 14, 2011 at 8:24 PM
Avatar
DANA_GUAM
  • MEMBER
  • 6 POSTS
Mr. Wrenchtech, How do I know if it needs to be replaced? When I pull it out can i blow it out with a air compressor and put it back in? Or dose it need to just be replaced? Thanks So Much for your Answer.

Mar 14, 2011 at 8:31 PM
Avatar
WRENCHTECH
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 20,761 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
No, you can't blow it out with an air hose. That doesn't fix anything. I seriously doubt the stat is your problem. They rarely fail. It needs to be checked out closer to determine what is really wrong with it.
Mar 14, 2011 at 8:36 PM
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 34,321 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Look at the plate in the middle to see if coolant could flow through it. It should be closed to block fluid flow. They can stick open but that would be real unusual for a new one. What exactly is the symptom? If the thermostat sticks open, it will take way too long for the engine to reach normal operating temperature. You will also have cool air from the heater.
Mar 14, 2011 at 8:40 PM
Avatar
RASMATAZ
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 75,992 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Just replace it-its cheap and good preventive maintenance-The fan should kick in @ 220degs. To check, use a DVOM measure the resistances cold and hot-
Mar 14, 2011 at 8:40 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.