OEM 2002 Toyota Tundra Thermostat

2002 Toyota Tundra Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How Can You Properly Service and Repair a Thermostat on 2002 Toyota Tundra?

  A: Service of the thermostat requires you to drain the engine coolant first. The water inlet needs to be unclipped from its housing by taking off all three nuts. Take out both the thermostat along with its mounting gasket. The thermostat needs testing by submerging it in water while heating the water to measure its valve opening point at 80 - 84 degrees Celsius (176 - 183 degrees Fahrenheit); replace the thermostat if the reading shows incorrect results. The valve must open to at least 10 mm (0.39 inch) at 95 degrees Celsius (203 degrees Fahrenheit to comply with the specification; otherwise replace the thermostat. Thermostat replacement is necessary if the valve does not produce a complete shut at temperatures below 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). An installation of a new gasket on the water inlet housing requires setting the jiggle valve in a straight upward position at 30 degree from either side of the designated position for insertion. Use the 3 nuts to install the water inlet towards its position while torquing them at 19 Nm (195 kgf-cm, 14 ft. lbs.). Add engine coolant to the system and begin the vehicle while inspecting for fluid leaks then verify the liquid level again.