1996 Ford Explorer Overheating, loss of coolant and loss o

Hi:
the thermostat can cause a temp problem, but not a coolant loss. Does the temp go up even with the coolant full? Are you still loosing coolant? Check around the engine for leaks, the oil for evidence of coolant getting in it and let me know what you find.

Joe

I'm wondering what "had it filled" means. Could be you have just a bad cap and people have been adding to the expansion jug and not even checking the radiator.(Cap seal n/g during "contraction")
OR - If it was drained and filled there's a good chance no one took the time/effort and/or let it go through a warm-up cycle enough to get all the air "bled" out.
OR - Does "had it filled" mean it was low and not properly pressure checked and/or pressure checked and "no leaks found" @ that time?
Either way getting it hot most likely compromised the t-stat (even if it wasn't the problem) and it should be replaced. It's relatively easy to access if it's a 4.0 OHV (overhead valve). If it's a 4.0 SOHC (overhead cam) I wouldn't - the housing's plastic, harder to access and tend to leak if you're not careful. And a thin layer of silicone in the right place. Drill a tiny "bleed hole" in it if it doesn't have one.