Need help ASAP on thermostat install

[SpoolinUpGN]

I can't believe i'm posting help for 160* thermostat install. I never even realized i hadn't put it in till i found it in my tool box. But thats besides the fact, i'm STRUGGLING with the last step in removing the stock thermostat. The spout that comes from the intake, which i believe houses the thermostat or sits just in front of the thermostat is being a *****.

I've sprayed plenty of penetrating lubricant on the oring to between the spout and the intake. I'm shaking it moving it and grabbing it as hard as i can to get it to come out, even with pliers i'm just collapsing the metal.

Its just a pressure fitting right? Please any fast responses about removing this so i can get to the thermostat from the countless people who have already done this, i'll be sitting here waiting.

 

[tford]

My housing got pretty messed up when I replaced my thermostat. Someone suggested I get the stainless housing because they said the original would get messed up. I think it came from Kirbans.

 

[SpoolinUpGN]

I'm still looking for exaclty how you managed to get it out, but thanks for the reply. At least there's something out there if i do damage this one

Twist? turn? shake? pliers?

 

[Victory]

Pull then Pull then Pull then Fall. Then chiropractor.

That's how I got mine out. :wink:

 

[1970gsx]

Put something like a hammer handle inside the opening and use that for leverage. It worked for me.

 

[wagon]

First: Get a replacement.
Second: Beat the crap out of it.

 

[87geeinn]

I had the Kirban's billet aluminum replacement to switch out when I did mine, so needless to say, my stock one ended up looking like a piece of balled up tinfoil when I was done molesting it with a pair of large vice grips. You did undo the one bolt that holds that C-shaped thingamabob against the intake right?

If you are in a hurry, NAPA sells a cast iron replacement water neck (ask for 89 TTA). That info's courtesy of a Central Florida Buick Type Club member.

 

[chrisgarrett]

When you do install the new one, put just a dab of blue loctite on the bolt and only torque it to 13 ft pounds. If you make it too tight, the oring will be compromised and it will leak.

 

[Bob Smith]

I changed mine for the 1st time this past weekend, with no problems. Bryan W. from KC gave me the following advice. Re-install the radiator hose after removing the horseshoe & bolt. This will give you some leverage to pull the housing loose. He also recommended drilling a very small hole on the outer flat edge of the thermostat. The hole aids in "burping" the system. I hope this helps.

 

[SpoolinUpGN]

Thanks for all the replies guys, while unfortunately it did turn out to be mission failed, i guess i can say i know EXACTLY how to get it out when i go back for round 2.

And from the responses, looks like before starting round 2 i'll pick up a new neck and beat the living piss outta the stock piece.

Thanks for all the help guys, this board rocks, even for the lame questions that i ask.

 

[6=8]

I used a large socket and extension... Pick a deep socket that just fits inside the ID of the housing. Rock back and forth to loosen and dislodge all the corrosion that builds up. Easy removal, no damage. I had a Stainless Steel replacement, but could have just re-used the old one if I had too.

(Not trying to rub it in or anything, but wanted to share this non-destructive trick! for the next guy that runs into this!)

 

[GDNF2ET]

I used a large socket and extension... Pick a deep socket that just fits inside the ID of the housing. Rock back and forth to loosen and dislodge all the corrosion that builds up. Easy removal, no damage. I had a Stainless Steel replacement, but could have just re-used the old one if I had too.

(Not trying to rub it in or anything, but wanted to share this non-destructive trick! for the next guy that runs into this!)

That worked great, thanx for the tip....

 

[gyrhead]

Delco Replacement

The Delco replacement neck is cast iron too and DIRT cheap. Take a GIANT pair of channel locks and crush/collapse the old one. This will break the seal allowing you to pull it out. Be careful not to damage the intake. A bit of lube on the o-ring while installing the new neck is a good idea - as it cleaning up the inside of the thermostat bore.

 

[GDNF2ET]

I got the Napa one for $9.50..They don't have one for the turbo regals ( which there are about 40,000 made in 86-87, but they have one for the TTA ( which they made around 1500 ) go figure ....Its the same part and fit great..The Napa info came from another thread....