How to Change the Thermostat on a Nissan Frontier
by Gregory CrewsThe thermostat in your Nissan Frontier is required to regulate the flow of coolant through your motor. The thermostat will send enough coolant through the motor to keep the engine running smoothly. The thermostat also ensure the coolant system pressurizes enough to draw the heat out of the coolant. The excess heat is used to run the heater in the passenger compartment of the Frontier. The thermostat is vital to the smooth operation of your Nissan Frontier.
Removal of the Thermostat
Step 1
Open the hood for access to the engine compartment. Locate the top radiator hose.
Step 2
Remove the top radiator hose using a flat-head screwdriver. Loosen the hose clamp till the hose can slide off the pipe. Remove the other end of the radiator hose off the thermostat housing assembly.
Step 3
Locate and remove the two bolts holding the thermostat housing together. Use your socket wrench to remove the top half.
Step 4
Remove the thermostat with your fingers. The thermostat will lift out with your fingers. Remember the position of the thermostat.
Step 5
Scrape the old gasket off the thermostat assembly surface. Use a putty knife or a razor blade.
Installation of the Thermostat
Step 1
Place the new thermostat in the housing. Remember the position of the thermostat that you removed. Install the new thermostat in the same way as the old one.
Step 2
Place the new gasket on the bottom portion of the assembly. Ensure the bolt holes on the gasket match up to the holes on the gasket.
Step 3
Place the top of the housing assembly on the bottom portion. Tighten the assembly with your socket wrench. The bolts should be snug to ensure a seal on your gasket.
Step 4
Install the radiator hose. Be sure to tighten the hose clamps to keep the hose tight on the pipes.
Step 5
Refill the radiator with coolant. You may have lost some coolant in the thermostat exchange.
Tips
- Be sure to inspect the hose and the hose clamps when removing. You should replace the hose clamps as they loosen with age. Be sure the hose itself does not have any tears or holes in it. If it does replace immediately.
Things You'll Need
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Socket wrench
- Putty knife
- Razor blade
- New thermostat
- Thermostat housing assembly gasket
- Coolant
Warnings
- Use extreme caution when working on the coolant system. Do not attempt repair while the motor is hot. The pressure of the radiator and the heat of the coolant will result in burns.
Writer Bio
Gregory Crews has been in the film industry for three years and has appeared in more than 38 major motion pictures and 16 television shows. He also writes detailed automotive tutorials. His expertise in the automotive industry has given him the skills to write detailed technical instructional articles.
