Thermostat removal / replacement

[Tom M]

I'm in the process of replacing the water pump on my 2011 CS due to a failed bearing and am also going to replace the thermostat since I'm in there and the car's got 99K on it.

 

I've followed all the steps on the AllDataDIY site but the thermostat doesn't want to budge. Yes, I've removed the cable plug so nothing should be holding it in except the gaskets.

 

I guess the question is how much force does it take to actually pull it out? The repair guide doesn't give any clue and I don't want to just yank on it if something is holding it in.

[Loren]

[Tom M]

Ho Loren.

 

I'm talking about this step...

 

Quote

 

2.2. Tie a knot in the wire or electric cable to prevent it from being pulled out.
2.3. Insert an assembly lever or a large screwdriver through the cable. -- Secured electric cable

 

2.4.	Pull the thermostat insert out of the crankcase completely using an inserted assembly lever or a large screwdriver. Support the assembly lever under the vibration balancer if necessary. -- Secured electric cable Figure shows removed thermostat insert -- Removed coolant regulator.

 

There's no indication as to how much force is required to extricate the thermostat from the housing. It should just be held in by the gaskets at this point so I would think it would come out w/o too much effort - maybe 10-20 lbs of pull. Guess I'll pull harder.   ETA: The answer is to indeed pull harder. Takes quite a bit to get it removed.

Edited February 11, 2018 by Tom M
Updated with solution

[Loren]

[deilenberger]

Tom, you may want to read up on the actual thermostat housing: https://rennlist.com/forums/cayenne-958-2011/1045931-2011-2014-serious-issue-coolant-pipe-glue.html

I would certainly consider at least JB_Weld'ing those pipes in place while you have it apart and accessible.. if not replacing the housing.

[Tom M]

Don, I've read about them on multiple places and may add some JB Weld since I've got things apart currently. I just need to pick up the hi temp flavor.

 

On the plus side, mine looks to be in good shape with no indication of movement so adding the JB Weld may end up like wearing a belt with suspenders,  but there's no real harm in doing so.