how do i test my thermostat?

may be a silly question, but how do i test my thermostat?

i thought its best to test and replace whilst the engine is out.

with my motorbike i took it out and poured a kettle on it, then used a blowtorch. when it didnt budge i bought a new one... is there a more scientific way of testing it?

cheers, carl.

 

no

although boiling water might expand it too much

try warm/hot water, then into cold water

 

Remove, measure its overall length when cold say 40mm , immerse in a pan of water and bring to 70 C. If it hasn't expanded beyond that then its failed.

 

Don't use a blowtorch

If the bellows is compressed at room temperature, it's likely a good 'un. Heat it gently with a hot air gun or in hot water - it should start to expand. If it does, it's ok.

Don't go mad, as the bellows type relies on the mounting bracket to stop expansion when it's got big enough. Too much heat and it'll grow ever longer and likely pop.

ps fritt beat me to it...

 

Cheers guys, will do that next tues.

Thanks!

 

They stay sucked in tight if they're not holed at room temp. Broken ones go "loose".

 

use a hot air gun or hairdryer, remember it opens and closes form hot air not water.

 

just be careful using a hot air gun.. hold it too close, or get it too hot and the solder will melt, and you'll have buggered a perfectly good one!!