OEM 2000 Toyota RAV4 Thermostat

2000 Toyota RAV4 Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to service and repair the thermostat on 2000 Toyota RAV4?

  A: Service of the thermostat begins by draining engine coolant followed by removing the oil filter. The water pump cover requires two nut removal before you disconnect the water inlet and extract the thermostat with its gasket. Signs indicate replacing the thermostat because the water immersion procedure shows the valve opening temperature should be between 80 - 84 degrees Celsius (176 - 183 degrees Fahrenheit). The required valve action is 8 mm (0.31 inch) at 95 degrees Celsius (203 degrees Fahrenheit) and a complete closure below 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) while inspecting the valve's specifications and replacing it if any criteria are not satisfied. To install the new thermostat you must first apply the gasket and position the water inlet protrusion with the jiggle valve before inserting the thermostat. Install the water inlet with one 2 nuts while torquing to 8.8 Nm (90 kgf-cm, 78 inch lbs.) using the other nut. Replace the oil filter after filling the engine with coolant until you start the motor for leak inspection before checking the oil level.