OEM 2002 Toyota Tacoma Thermostat

2002 Toyota Tacoma Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to Service and Repair a Thermostat on 2002 Toyota Tacoma?

  A: The service procedure for the thermostat begins with emptying engine coolant through the lower radiator hose removal process. The service for the thermostat requires unbolting its 2 nuts followed by separating water inlet and thermostat with gasket from where it attaches to the water pump while also removing the gasket from the thermostat. Place the thermostat into water while you heat the liquid to test its valve opening range for compatibility with 80 - 84 degrees Celsius (176 - 183 degrees Fahrenheit); replace the thermostat if the values are outside these specifications. Verifying the valve opening lift at 95 degrees Celsius (203 degrees Fahrenheit) is important because it needs to be at least 8 mm (0.31 inch); replacement of the thermostat is required when this threshold is not met. The thermostat valve needs to close completely when temperatures drop below 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) and replacement of the thermostat must be done if it fails to close properly. The installation process requires a new gasket on the thermostat followed by alignment of the jiggle valve with the water inlet housing protrusion before inserting the thermostat. Screw the water inlet into the housing by using the two nuts while positioning the top mark (protrusion) towards the top and applying torque to 20 Nm (200 kgf-cm, 15 ft. lbs.). Use the lower radiator hose before adding engine coolant then start the engine for leak inspection.