OEM 2001 Toyota RAV4 Thermostat

2001 Toyota RAV4 Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to service and repair a thermostat on 2001 Toyota RAV4?

  A: The service process starts with draining engine coolant and removing both the drive belt alongside the generator to access the thermostat. Start by taking off the water inlet and thermostat through 2 nut removal followed by the water inlet and thermostat removal and the subsequent removal of its gasket. Check the thermostat operation by submerging it in water and progressively heating it before verifying its valve opening temperature falls between 80 - 84 degrees Celsius (176 - 183.2 degrees Fahrenheit); if it fails this test the thermostat needs replacement. The temperature valve needs to exceed 10 mm (0.39 inch) at 95 degrees Celsius (203 degrees Fahrenheit) testing while the valve needs to remain completely sealed below 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit); replace the thermostat if any specifications fall outside these margins. Installation requires placement of the thermostat into the cylinder block with a new gasket while the jiggle valve needs positioning upward to allow a 10-degree variance. Follow this process to fasten the water inlet using its two nuts while tightening them to 9 Nm before reinstalling the generator and drive belt. Begin engine coolant distribution after starting the engine to search for leaks while double checking the existing coolant measurement.