Ford F-150: How to Replace Your Thermostat

This article applies to the Ford F-150 (2004-2014).

The thermostat sits between the engine and the radiator of your Ford F-150. It is designed to block the flow of coolant to the radiator until the engine has warmed up. Your thermostat reduces engine wear, deposits, and emissions.

Step 1 - Drain your coolant

You're going to get under your F-150 and find the drain valve and allow the coolant to drain out. You don't have to let all of it out. You can also use a clean drain pan here so that you can reuse your coolant after you're done.

Step 2 - Remove the intake piping

You'll need to remove the intake piping from the throttle body to the air box in order to reach the thermostat housing.

Step 3 - Remove the upper radiator hose on the thermostat housing

Now, you should be able to see the clamp holding the upper radiator hose to the thermostat housing. Take a pair of pliers and slip the clamp back so you can remove the upper radiator hose.

Step 4 - Remove the thermostat housing

Grab your socket wrench and sockets again to remove the two bolts holding the thermostat housing to the intake manifold. They are long bolts, but the threads are short.

Step 5 - Replace the thermostat

Now you can reach your thermostat to replace it. Your new thermostat should come with the o-ring gasket, but if it didn't, be sure to buy and install it before you install the new thermostat.

Step 6 - Put it all back together

Now you should put everything back in the opposite order in which you removed it. When it comes time to putting coolant back in, be sure to use the right coolant! The 2004 to 2014 F-150 uses Motorcraft Gold, so you'll have to get some from your dealer or a retail store or just reuse the coolant in the drain pan if it's clean.

Related Discussion

• Replacing the thermostat - F150forum.com