Nissan Altima (L32) 2007-2012 Service Manual: Thermostat and thermostat housing

Removal and Installation

1. Gasket

2. Thermostat assembly

WARNING: Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Serious burns could occur from high pressure coolant escaping from the radiator.

REMOVAL

CAUTION: Perform when engine is cool.

1. Drain engine coolant from the radiator. Refer to CO-35, "Changing Engine Coolant".

2. Remove drive belts. Refer to EM-121, "Removal and Installation".

3. Remove water drain plug on water pump side of the engine. Refer to EM-206, "Disassembly and Assembly".

4. Disconnect lower radiator hose.

5. Remove engine coolant inlet and thermostat assembly.

• Do not disassemble engine coolant inlet and thermostat.

Replace them as a unit, if necessary.

INSPECTION AFTER REMOVAL

• Place a thread so that it is caught in the valves of the thermostat.

Immerse fully in a container filled with water. Heat while stirring.

• The valve opening temperature is the temperature at which the valve opens and the falls from the thread.

• Continue heating. Check the full-open lift amount.

NOTE: The full-open lift amount standard temperature for the thermostat is the reference value.

• After checking the full-open lift amount, lower the water temperature and check the valve closing temperature.

INSTALLATION

Installation is in the reverse order of removal.

• Install thermostat with jiggle valve facing upward.

• After installation refill engine coolant and check for leaks. Refer to CO-35, "Changing Engine Coolant" and CO-34, "System Inspection".

CAUTION: Do not spill coolant in engine compartment. Use a shop cloth to absorb coolant.