5 replies to this topic

[rock1day]

Can the cylinder head be removed (decoke) with the thermostat / thermostat housing left in place or will this cause problems when refilling the coolant?

 

My car is 28 years old and I'm concerned about shearing off the thermostat housing studs. 

[nicklouse]

it can be left on. but i would be changing the thermostat if it has not been done for a long time.

 

as you are taking the head off it makes it easier to take it somewhere if there are issues.

 

Plusgas and heat are useful tools.

[Rorf]

Definitely change the thermostat, the thermostat housing and the studs too. Otherwise a half job done which will bite you in the *sse later on

[rock1day]

Makes sense, would the bolts be easier to remove if the engine is at running temperature or is direct heat from a blowlamp more effective? 

[MiniMadRacer]

Direct gentle heat from a blow lamp and plus gas or similar, but watch your face if spraying plus gas or similar onto hot studs as it can flash or spit at you.. I also find a soft mallet to gently tap the housing, "up and down" to kind of rock it on the studs to free off the "rust / binding".. and as always.  take your time.. spray.. drink tea.. water the garden etc... contrary to popular belief these rust pentrating fluids take a long time to act not 5 mins

 

i have a "gorilla" mate who sprays a rusty nut then snaps it off almost immediately and slags of the fluid for being useless..

[rock1day]

Thanks for the advice, think I`ll try direct heat plus a freeing agent for several times before attempting to remove the studs.