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1997 Acura Integra Repair Question


Topics covered: Engine, Thermostat, Radiator.
Mileage: No information provided.

Asked on March 14, 2011

Thermostat

How can I tell if a Thermostat is Bad? I just replaced it in Aug. of 2010. I have problems with my 1997 Acura Integra overheating. This morning I opened up my radiator cap and started the car and saw that the coolant was moving like it was running threw the radiator and engine. Dose that mean my Thermostat is open?
Avatar Asked by Dana_Guam

Answer

Replied on March 14, 2011

Yup. It's circulating. It shouldn't do that until the engine is warmed up.

Tiny Answered by caradiodoc (expert)
17,308 answers provided
Replied on March 14, 2011

The T-stat is at the end of the lower radiator hose. Feel the temp of that hose near the engine. If it's hot, the stat is open.

Tiny Answered by Wrenchtech (expert)
14,747 answers provided
Replied on March 14, 2011

How do I know if it needs to be replaced? When I pull it out can i blow it out with a air compressor and put it back in? Or dose it need to just be replaced?
Thanks So Much for your Answer.

Tiny Response from Dana_Guam
2 questions asked

Replied on March 14, 2011

Sorry Doc, we posted at the same time. You finish.

Tiny Answered by Wrenchtech (expert)
14,747 answers provided
Replied on March 14, 2011

Thanks! When I remove the Thermostat, can i blow it out with a strong air pressure and re-use it? How do I know if it will close or stay open when I put it back in. Or is that not a good idea?
Thanks.

Tiny Response from Dana_Guam
2 questions asked
Replied on March 14, 2011

Mr. Wrenchtech, How do I know if it needs to be replaced? When I pull it out can i blow it out with a air compressor and put it back in? Or dose it need to just be replaced? Thanks So Much for your Answer.

Tiny Response from Dana_Guam
2 questions asked

Replied on March 14, 2011

No, you can't blow it out with an air hose. That doesn't fix anything. I seriously doubt the stat is your problem. They rarely fail. It needs to be checked out closer to determine what is really wrong with it.

Tiny Answered by Wrenchtech (expert)
14,747 answers provided
Replied on March 14, 2011

Look at the plate in the middle to see if coolant could flow through it. It should be closed to block fluid flow. They can stick open but that would be real unusual for a new one. What exactly is the symptom? If the thermostat sticks open, it will take way too long for the engine to reach normal operating temperature. You will also have cool air from the heater.

Tiny Answered by caradiodoc (expert)
17,308 answers provided
Replied on March 14, 2011

Just replace it-its cheap and good preventive maintenance-The fan should kick in @ 220degs. To check, use a DVOM measure the resistances cold and hot-

Tiny Answered by rasmataz
68 questions asked