Changing Thermostat in 99 WS

[AvalonJohn]

Guys,

Tried to change the thermostat in my 99 WS (3.8 engine) yestreday with a coolant change. Took out battery (for more room), air filter housing, and disconnected about 5 electrical connections so I could access the thermostat housing. Everything was going well util I tried to get the upper clamp off the hose by the thermostat housing. The clamp was the kind that you squeeze together with pliers and it was behind another line that looks like it needs to be taken off to get the housing off. The line is either a coolant or AC line at about 2 o'clock when facing the thermostat housing. It has two plastic tabs that look like if you squeeze them in the line should disconnect (pull off)? Does anyone know what this line is and how to get it off ?

Thanks,

AvalonJohn

[busboy4]

Hi

that is the heater hose where it joins the bypass hose/tube. Here is a link to Wiswind's page with an after photo

http://rides.webshots.com/photo/2306...11220610LKbEKH

He used a tool to disconnect it, I used a screwdriver and broke mine. If you look carefully I think you need to pry the tabs "out" so that they clear a small flange on the hose body, and then you can slide it out. For good measure, pick up the kit from Ford which will have the two o-rings and a new snap lock. I do not have the part number but my local guys immediately knew what I was after.
Good luck

[AvalonJohn]

That's for the info.

AvalonJohn

[wiswind]

The connector is called a "quick connect".
The hose is the heater hose.
You can get the special tool on loan from autozone.....although mine fell apart.....but mine, on a '96, had 3 more years for the heat to make the nylon/plastic clips brittle.
I ended up cutting the "quick connect" off and sliding the hose onto the metal nipple and using a hose clamp.

I have pictures posted of the thermostat change on my '96 3.8L....I'll bet yours is super similar.
Make sure to install the new thermostat with the small "weep" hole up.