OEM 2004 Dodge Dakota Thermostat

2004 Dodge Dakota Thermostat Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Maintain Your Thermostat for Optimal Engine Coolant Performance on 2004 Dodge Dakota?

  A: Be sure the radiator draincock is not loosened while the system is under high pressure and warm to avoid possible burns from the coolant before you try this step. Remove the coolant into a neat container for use again if it is clean and make sure the new thermostat lines up with the vehicle you have and its engine type. First, disable the negative linking cable on the battery, empty the cooling system and then lift the vehicle up on a hoist. Unhook the splash cover, then the clamp and the hose that are connected at the thermostat housing. Following this, remove the bolts attached to the thermostat housing, the thermostat housing itself and the thermostat. Before you set the thermostat into the timing chain cover, clean out the mating areas of both the timing chain cover and thermostat housing. Position the housing for the thermostat above the timing chain cover and install the two bolts on the housing, using 13 Nm (112 inch lbs.) torque so it is tightened evenly and the thermostat is centered in the housing to keep it from cracking, getting damaged or leaking. Attach the lower radiator hose to the thermostat housing, put back the splash shield, lower the vehicle, fill the cooling system, hook up the negative battery cable and then start and warm the engine as you watch for any leaks.