The Daily Insight
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Is an electric thermostat mounted on the radiator?

The thermostat is located between the engine and the radiator. This little temperature-sensitive spring valve stays closed during engine warm-up. When the thermostat is closed, it prevents coolant from leaving the engine and circulating through the radiator until the correct running temperature is reached.

What side does the thermostat go on a radiator?

However, it’s always best practice to fit the TRV on the flow pipe that enters your radiator. If a non-bi-directional thermostatic valve is fitted to the return side of the radiator, it can make a loud vibrating noise when water tries to pass through it.

What are the symptoms of a bad coolant temperature sensor?

Symptoms of a bad or failing coolant temperature switch (sensor)

  • Poor fuel economy. One of the first symptoms associated with a problem with the coolant temperature sensor is poor fuel economy.
  • Black smoke from engine.
  • Overheating engine.
  • Check Engine Light comes on.

Can a radiator thermostat go on either side?

Most modern thermostatic radiator valves are bi-directional – so can be fitted on either the flow or return pipe of your radiator. However, it’s always best practice to fit the TRV on the flow pipe that enters your radiator.

Can you put a thermostat on the top of a radiator?

Any aftermarket thermostat housing that mounts the radiator cap directly above the thermostat location, or that mount the radiator cap in the top coolant hose, are not recommended. Both of those housing styles are poorly designed, and will push coolant out of the cap at high RPM.

What is the normal temperature of a thermostat in a car?

Thermostats are available in a range from about 160° to over 200°. Older vehicles with open-style cooling systems and classic engines usually use a lower temperature thermostat. These engines operate at lower temperatures and coolant loss can occur in an open system if the system overheats.

How do I connect the temperature sensor to the thermostat?

The sensor is 3/8-inch pipe thread so an adapter may be needed in some applications (1/2-inch adapter included in the kit). Do not use Teflon tape on the sensor or you will get poor electrical contact and inaccurate temperature readings. Grey wire is connected to the thermostat (sending unit) terminal with the blue ring crimp connector provided.

Where should the radiator cap be located on a Ford Ranger?

The radiator cap should always be located at the highest point of the cooling system, and on the low-pressure side (after the radiator core). Cross flow radiators mounted higher than the engine are ideal because the cap is on the tank that is connected to the water pump inlet.