The thermostat in a 1987 Honda Accord regulates the coolant flowing between the engine and the radiator. Over time, it can stick either open or shut. In either condition, the engine can start to overheat, which, if left unchecked, can cause serious damage. The only fix is to remove the defective thermostat and replace it with a new one, which will fix the overheating issue.
Tools Used: Drain pan, Pliers, 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set, Gasket scraper, Replacement thermostat and gasket, 50-50 pre-diluted coolant
Install & Remove the Thermostat
Allow the engine to cool for at least four hours. Set the drain pan underneath the middle of the engine. Open the petcock at the base of the radiator with your hands and allow approximately 2 quarts of coolant to drain from the radiator, then close the petcock.
Locate the thermostat housing, which is next to the battery and connected to the upper radiator hose. Use the pliers to remove the spring clamp holding the upper radiator hose to the thermostat housing, then pull off the upper radiator hose. Unbolt the thermostat housing from the engine using the ratchet and remove the housing and thermostat. Scrape the old gasket off the engine using the gasket scraper.
Set the replacement gasket on the thermostat housing studs. Mount the thermostat in the housing in the same orientation as the original, then bolt the thermostat housing to the engine using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Reinstall the upper radiator hose using the pliers.
Open the radiator cap and fill the radiator with the 50-50 pre-diluted coolant. Reinstall the radiator cap. Start the car and allow it to run for 15 minutes with the heater on the high position. Turn off the car and allow it to cool for an hour. Open the radiator cap and top it off with the coolant as needed.
Tips & Warnings
Never work on the cooling system of a hot vehicle. You risk seriously burning yourself.
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