How do you replace the thermostat in a 98 Chevy Venture?

Answer 1

Should be located at the engine end of the upper radiator hose

Drain about 1 gallon of coolant from the radiator Remove housing at end of upper radiator hose Observe how thermostat is installed Clean both surfaces Install new thermostat and gasket Re-fill cooling system slowly to prevent an "airlock" Start vehicle and watch for leaks Run vehicle to normal operating temperature with heater on Re-check coolant level

-the above is extremely simplified... it is actually a HUGE job, and one I am undertaking at this time. (same applies for Chevy Venture, Pontiac Montana and Transport, and Oldsmobile Silhouette for all years 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001... six cylinder 3400 engine). Thermostat is under the throttle body which is on top of the engine on the left/driver side of the engine compartment, but it is ALSO behind the exhaust manifold! You MUST rotate the engine forward, then remove the ignition coil and ECG module, and other stuff too. Then you can get to the bolts for the manifold heat shield, and then you can remove the manifold. Best to get a repair manual, as all steps have many, many other steps to prepare for the next step. Wish this were easier... shame on you, manufacturers of these models. What is a 1/2 hour job on most vehicles, becomes at least 6 or more hours on these! I am not happy right now (my thermostat stuck closed, which overheats the engine in about 3-4 miles. You can let it cool for 10 minutes, and drive another 3-4 miles, if you don't have towing on your insurance. At least I HOPE it is the thermostat, and not a clogged radiator, which is what I will replace next .... or maybe the water pump... the belt tension is OK for the pump.) Jim WQ2121@sbcglobal.net