Don't know where thermostat is located

[kasos]

We have a Dodge dakota truck. I believe it is a club cab. The year is a
2002,V6 and I think it has a 3.9 motor. We have a problem with the
temp gauge. It will go hot at any time and then go back to normal
once we let it idle in neutral and then it goes back down to normal.We
were goin try to change the thermostat to see if that will solve it. We
have no idea where it is located at. Is the thermostat something we
can change ourselves? My husband is a sub-contractor for Bright
house and we need to know asap. Please e-mail me at kasos@tampa
bay.rr.com as soon as someone can.

Thanks

[93_R/T_TT_Stealth]

well first check the coolent level - the thermostat is not always to blame but it can go at any time - buy wearing out or gettin stuck an what not but - if the coolant level seems good then its cheap to change the themostat but see if any coolant will go into the radiator.... but here is how u locate an change the thermostat,Thermostat is on top of engine under the hose coming from top of radiator. U will have to wait till the engine is cool - so dont drive it for about 2-3 hours to ensure urself so u dont get burnt- just let about 1-2 quats out of the drain plug on the bottom of the radiator. then un do the 2 bolts remove the neck an then take old thermostat out an replace with new-
U can get a Haynes manual for it for about 12 bucks or so from ur local parts store - it should only take about 20 mins at the most to change with no auto experience - HOPE THAT HELPS!
Good luck!

Matt