How to Change the Thermostat in a Pontiac Grand Am
by Editorial TeamThe Pontiac Grand Am came on the scene in the 1970s, but it wasn't until the 1980s when it became the Pontiac of choice for new-car buyers. It's affordable, attractive and offers a nice array of options. The last generation of Grand Am was produced from 1999 through 2005 with either an economical 2.4L four-cylinder or the more powerful 3.4L V6. This is an intermediate level do-it-yourself project.
Step 1
Disconnect the battery ground cable. Drain the engine coolant in to a suitable container.
Step 2
Remove the bolts that hold the water pump feed pipe to the thermostat housing. Take out the water pump feed pipe. Lift out the thermostat.
Step 3
Clean the thermostat sealing surfaces completely. Remove any old gasket material and dirt.
Step 4
Install the new thermostat. Connect the water pump feed pipe to the thermostat.
Step 5
Set the bolt in place that holds the water pump feed pipe on the thermostat housing. Torque the pipe bolt to 89 inch pounds.
Step 6
Refill the cooling system, recycling the coolant. Add more coolant as needed. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
Step 7
Start the engine and allow it to run until the thermostat opens. Turn off the engine and let it cool. Recheck the coolant level and add coolant as needed.
Things You'll Need
- Mechanic's toolset, including a full socket set, wrenches and screwdrivers
- Replacement thermostat, new or rebuilt
- New gasket for thermostat
Warnings
- Recycle coolant unless it's contaminated or old. Properly dispose of used coolant as ingestion is usually fatal for dogs, cats and farm animals.
Writer Bio
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