FixVault

Engine Cooling System: Thermostat: Inspection

  1. Check for leaks.
    CAUTION:
    • The engine coolant is pressurized when it is hot. Wait until engine coolant cools down before proceeding the work.
    • If the engine coolant is spilt over the engine, exhaust pipe or the under cover, completely wipe it off to avoid emission of smoke or causing a fire.
    1. Remove the radiator cap.
    2. Fill the radiator with engine coolant, and then install the radiator cap tester to the filler neck of radiator.
      CAUTION: Be careful not to deform the filler neck of radiator when installing and removing the radiator cap tester.
      G13199098Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    3. Apply a pressure of 157 kPa (1.6 kg/cm2 , 23 psi) to the radiator and check the following points:
    • Leakage from the flow path of the engine coolant or its vicinity
    • Significant pressure drop
    CAUTION: Be careful of engine coolant from spurting out when removing the radiator cap tester.
  2. Check that there is no deformation, cracks or other damages.
  3. Check that the thermostat valve closes completely at an ambient temperature.
  4. Immerse the thermostat and a thermometer in water. Raise water temperature gradually, and check the temperature and the valve lift amount when the valve begins to open and when the valve is fully opened. Replace the thermostat if faulty.
NOTE:
  • During the test, agitate the water for even temperature distribution.
  • Leave the thermostat in the boiling water for five minutes or more before measuring the valve lift.
  • Hold the thermostat with a wire or the like to avoid contacting with container bottom.

Starting temperature to open: 

Engine side

86 - 90°C (187 - 196°F)

Water tank pipe side

48 - 52°C (118 - 126°F)

Full open temperature: 

Engine side

95°C (203°F)

Water tank pipe side

63°C (145°F)

Total valve lift: 

Engine side

8.0 mm (0.315 in) or more

Water tank pipe side

6.0 mm (0.236 in) or more

G13862933Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.