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?


Clink on link
http://www.pfyc.com/supportfiles/tstat/tstat.htm

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?

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.

Thanks for the info.

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?

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.

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!!