460 thermostat housing bolts,,
Hi, Our old motor home is running almost to the hot line on temp gauge. I just tried to remove thermostat to replace it. Both bolts are rusted tight. I don't want to snap them off. Any one have a way ...
Forum Discussion
j-d wrote:
I went to a 180* on our older Fords also. We had the carbed RV and to V6 EFI TBirds. I wouldn't go all the way to 160* since even that 84 460's system makes a few decisions based on temperature.
Even if I wasn't planning to change the T'stat, I'd want to be able to get those fasteners out. What if it actually DID jam shut on the road? I carried a spare, along with a gasket and a tube of gasket sealant. Tools, of course.
J&J is right. Good chance it still won't center the gauge in its temp range. Ours ran toward the hot side, and I replaced the radiator. New radiator didn't bring it down. The fan clutch usually idled at road speed but would clutch in with a roar on even slight uphills.
Absolutely agree with you about addressing the problem while you can do it on your terms. On the side of the road is no place to do a job of that sort. But, in case of the dreaded " stuck thermostat " on the side of the road, remove the hose from the housing ( after it has cooled down ) and drive the thermostat open with a small screwdriver, leave it in place to hold the thermostat open and replace the hose over it. It will usually allow you to drive until you can get help.
