Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Thermostat replace

[SRehberg]

My truck is running clear down at the bottom of the guage (140 max) so I assume the wayward gasket is in the thermostat holding it open. I bought the replacement Cummins thermostat and proceeded to drain the radiator. For the life of me I can't see the drain petcock anywhere. My other truck it was readily apparent, but this one is well hidden if it is even there. Did they make some without the petcock? The manual doesn't show the location, so I would appreciate someone helping out this blind in one eye, can't see out of the other one shade tree mechanic.

 

[JNailor]

The drain on my 94 is on the driver's side radiator tank near the bottom. of course.

It doesn't unscrew, but turns a quarter turn then you pull on the plug.

 

[DBCooper]

Be prepaired to buy a new plug... or at least a new o ring. They don't seem to like to seal once opened. They are cheap from any "dealer"

 

[SRehberg]

I appreciate the tips, I'll crawl back under there tomorrow and see if that little bugger is visible. I sure missed it today. I need to just drain enough to change the thermostat, but if the "o" ring needs replacement, it'll be coolant change time. Thanks again.

 

[SRehberg]

I found the drain plug o. k. and the change out was easy enough. The rubber sleeve that is suspose to be on the thermostat was jammed in the opening, not letting it close. The new one came with the same rubber sleeve glued to it. I can't see what good this thing does, but being a newby, I was afraid to take it off. Does anyone remove this troublesome piece of rubber? It was a good excuse to change the antifreeze as well.

 

[illflem]

I've never taken the rubber off a new one but have taken them off old ones then reinstalled. I couldn't see that it made any difference whatsoever.