How do I change a thermostat in my 1999 dodge dakota?

Answer 1

to change a thermostat first you need to drain the cooling system, then remove the upper radiator hose. On the spot where it was connected to the engine you will see 2 or 3 bolts holding a rounded fitting onto the engine. remove that fitting and your thermostat will be in there. pull out the old one and replace it. Remove the old gasket and replace it with a new one. (use silicone if you desire, but not too much). Then put the hose back on, fill the radiator, start it up and check for leaks. Heres a link to a page with some pics of different thermostat housings that might help you.
http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/Product/s-10101/Pr-p_Product.CATENTRY_ID:2000908/p-2000908/N-111+10201+600001655/c-10101/TID-0820

Answer 2

what engine? its pretty simple use a thirtenn millimeter socket on a 6 inch 3/8 drive extension and racthet and remove the thermostat housing bolts then just work loose and pull up the thermostat is right there pull it out clean the intake and thermostat housing use a new gasket and installation is reverse of removal

Answer 3

Follow the top radiator hose down to the engine, where it connects is the thermostat cover, 2 bolts should hold it down, take out the bolts and you can remove the cover, get a new gasket when you get the new thermostat.

Answer 4

I have a friend who has a '91 dakota that did the same thing. He replace the both the switch and the pump several times. Also, he changed the wiring and some relay is the back of the meter set. Never fixed the problem for long. We tested the oil presure five times and it always had good pressure. The truck still runs today with 465k on it. Go figure?