How to Replace a Buick Century Thermostat

by Lisa Wampler

Since the Buick Century first entered the automotive market in 1936, it’s been available on and off with many body styles and engine sizes. The diversity of this vehicle means that many people have chosen the Century for many different reasons. However, even if you choose to drive an older V8 Century from the first 6 years it was on the market or you choose to drive the tamer V6 models commonly available today, you’ll be able to follow the same process for changing out the thermostat.

Step 1

Find the thermostat housing by first locating the hose that is connected to the top of the Buick's radiator. The other end of the radiator connects to the housing. The thermostat is located inside of the housing.

Step 2

Remove the radiator hose from the thermostat housing by loosening the metal band clamp that squeezes the radiator hose around the thermostat housing. Once loosened, the hose can be pulled off of the housing.

Step 3

Remove the two bolts that hold the thermostat housing on the intake manifold of the Century by using an adjustable wrench. Keep the bolts; replacements are not included with the new thermostat. Lift the housing off of the intake manifold.

Step 4

Pull the thermostat out of the intake manifold. It is not bolted in place. Pull the old thermostat gasket off of the intake manifold, and discard it.

Step 5

Place the new thermostat into the intake manifold. The orientation of the thermostat is important. Note which side should be placed inside of the manifold to ensure that the thermostat works properly.

Step 6

Place PVC gasket maker around the thermostat on the machined lip of the manifold (location typically covered by the thermostat housing.) Allow the PVC to dry for approximately 10 minutes, and then bolt the thermostat housing back onto the intake manifold.