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Old 12-09-2006, 11:53 PM   #1
BNaylor
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Thermostat Replacement '97-'03 with SII 3800 Engine

How do I replace the thermostat in a '97-'03 Grand Prix with Series II 3800 engine?





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Old 10-09-2008, 09:34 PM   #2
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Re: Thermostat Replacement '97-'03 with SII 3800 Engine

I am about to change the thermostat on my '98 GP. Do you recommend replacing with GM original equipment and what's the opening temp?
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Old 10-09-2008, 10:57 PM   #3
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Re: Thermostat Replacement '97-'03 with SII 3800 Engine

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Originally Posted by proscroby
I am about to change the thermostat on my '98 GP. Do you recommend replacing with GM original equipment and what's the opening temp?
Rating of the stock thermostat is 195 degrees.

AC Delco or aftermarket Stant Superstat brand.



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Old 10-10-2008, 12:14 PM   #4
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Re: Thermostat Replacement '97-'03 with SII 3800 Engine

Thanks for the info.
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Old 10-30-2008, 06:57 PM   #5
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Re: Thermostat Replacement '97-'03 with SII 3800 Engine

Stupid me! I changed my antifreeze and forgot to change the thermostat. It seems to be opening ok but it is 11 years old today although the car has only done 89K km. Do you recommend changing it anyway?
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Old 10-30-2008, 08:36 PM   #6
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Re: Thermostat Replacement '97-'03 with SII 3800 Engine

Quote:
Originally Posted by proscroby
Stupid me! I changed my antifreeze and forgot to change the thermostat. It seems to be opening ok but it is 11 years old today although the car has only done 89K km. Do you recommend changing it anyway?
It is up to you but if it is working and regulating temperature properly I wouldn't worry about it since you only have 89K km.



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'02 Oldsmobile Alero GL2 - LA1 3400 V6
'99 Buick Regal LS - L36 Series II 3800 V6
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Old 10-31-2008, 01:54 PM   #7
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Re: Thermostat Replacement '97-'03 with SII 3800 Engine

Another suggestion for help in bleeding the air out.

If the replacement t-stat doesn't have a jiggle valve in the flange to allow air to escape past when it's closed (the AC-Delco does), drill a small 1/8" hole in the flange prior to installing it. That way, as you refill the cooling system, air trapped in the engine is allowed past the t-stat. If you jack the right front corner of the car up so the radiator cap/filler neck is higher than the hoses, most if not all the air will be forced out while filling. Otherwise, getting these cars to bleed all the air out can be a NIGHTMARE!!
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