Buick Regal Forums banner

How-To: Replace the Thermostat on a '96 Regal

4753 Views 0 Replies 1 Participant Last post by  RegalBeagle
Hello all,

I haven't posted here in a while, so I decided to make my glorious return by posting up a write-up on replacing the thermostat on a '96 Regal equipped with the 3.1L L82 engine :)


1) Disconnect the negative battery cable.

2) Partially drain the engine cooling system, into a suitable container, to a level below the thermostat.

3) If replacing the water outlet, detach the radiator hose from the outlet.

4) Unfasten the water outlet attaching bolts and remove the water outlet.

5) Remove the thermostat. Remove and discard the gasket.

6) Thoroughly clean the manifold water inlet and water outlet mating surfaces.


To install:


1) Position the thermostat into the inlet manifold.

2) Apply a 1/8 in. (3mm) bead of RTV sealer to the thermostat housing.

3) Install the water outlet to the inlet manifold, then tighten the attaching bolts to 18 ft. lbs. (23 Nm).

4) Attach the radiator hose to the water outlet housing.

5) Refill the engine with the specified type and amount of engine coolant.

6) Connect the negative battery cable, start the engine and check for coolant leaks.



*diagram courtesy of gmpartsgiant.com; all rights reserved
See less See more
1 - 1 of 1 Posts
1 - 1 of 1 Posts
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Top