mchoss1970

Has anyone changed the thermostat on the VR6 engine? If so what can you tell me about the process. Is there any tricks or things to look out for? How long does it take and how frustrating is it? I have heard that warping or cracking of the housing can be a problem (plastic I believe), has anyone had this probelm? Can it be done witout draining the whole system or do I have to drain, flush and refill. Thanks in advance, Mike.

catfishunter

Did you ever change your thermostat? If so, how bad was the job? Also where exactly is the thermostat located? Off the upper hose or the lower hose? How many components need to be removed to get to it?
Thanks!
Mike

mchoss1970

I did change it. It wasnt too bad really. The t-stat is in the upper section of the hose which is what made things a little difficult. The bolts are hex (I dont remember the size). You will need an extension to get at them and some patience. The only problem I had was finding the drain. I never did, so when I pulled the hose it was quite a mess. Overall it wasnt too big a deal and now things are running wel again. Good luck and let me know if you have more questions. Mike.

__________________
1995 Passat VR6 Red/Black with slight tint.
250000 KMs and still running great.
Body is perfect with no rust eventhough driven in winter.
Looking forward to another 1/4 million KMs.

catfishunter

Thanks for the quick reply! Plan on going for it tomorrow. Will keep you updated...thanks again!
Mike

mrsinister

I am having problems with my cooling system, the engine is spitting out coolant after shutdown, and the heater doesn't work. I have already replaced the heater core and auxiliary water pump, the thermostat is next. Is there anywhere I can get some details on the change procedure? Thanks, C

catfishunter

Make sure you have the right tool's;I wound up stripping one of the bolt's and cracked the housing.$138.00 plus $70.00 tow.

veedubmechanic

There are 3 hex bolts that hold the housing to the cyl head. I believe 5mm (1 short and 2 long ones). after you take all the coolant hoses off that are attached to it and unbolt it you can simply pull it off the water pipe that comes from the water pump. Then you simply dis-assemble the housing and replace the thermostat. Remember to replace A L L the o-rings so you dont have any coolant leaks afterwards.