Thermostat replacement

[Khyron]

Checked a few of the threads on vortex and it seems it's quite a pain - involving alternator removal etc. So I'm planning on a tunedub visit but just checking in case someone here knows a trick to getting it changed? Some guy said he managed in 15 mins with no alt removal but no pics.

[100%VAGitarian]

Re: Thermostat replacement

i've changed it without alt removal. i don't have pics either but with the right tools, it's easy. i can lend you a hand if you'd like.

[FlyBoy]

Re: Thermostat replacement

I almost did it without pulling the alternator, but couldn't get it to seat properly so in the end I did have to loosen the alternator. I think I just removed the top bolt and loosened the bottom bolt, then carefully pryed it away (forward) with a crowbar to make room to get at the coolant/thermostat flange. Might have the bolts wrong but you get the idea.

Pulling the alternator is not a big deal, you just need some way to press the lugs back to get it back on easier (ie a C clamp and some tube).

Oh ya, this is on a 2.0L.

[VAG_Tech]

Re: Thermostat replacement

Why do you want to change the thermostat? Is the car overheating?

[100%VAGitarian]

Re: Thermostat replacement

or stuck open and not making enough heat.

[nordex]

Re: Thermostat replacement

or stuck open and not making enough heat.

Sounds like my problem.

[Khyron]

Re: Thermostat replacement

Why do you want to change the thermostat? Is the car overheating?

17704 - Error in Mapped Cooling System (check Temp-Sensor and Thermostat)
P1296 - 35-00 - -

Had the temp sensor replaced with the greentop last year. Noticed in the last few months the car drops to almost 1/4 on the temp gauge when under load/speed then creeps up to almost center when idling for awhile. Heat isn't cold or anything but my butt-thermometer says it's not as hot.

I was just going by what vortex suggested. Do you think I should try another temp sensor first?

[Khyron]

Re: Thermostat replacement

i've changed it without alt removal. i don't have pics either but with the right tools, it's easy. i can lend you a hand if you'd like.

Wow thanks for the offer - I might take you up on it depending on timing etc - I have a semi-heated garage, tools and beer.

Problem is it's the only winter capable car so I have to make sure the wife doesn't need it. Might end up at one of the dealers just because I can leave it while at work.

[RONDAL]

Re: Thermostat replacement

what car is this for?
VR6 is an easy fix and i could help you do it in 20 mins if you want.

[FlyBoy]

Re: Thermostat replacement

Isn't the temp sensor like a $10 part that takes a few minutes to replace? Why not start there? Just because you have the latest part doesn't mean they don't fail. Plus if the temperature on the gauge is not acting normal I would think sensor before thermostat.

[VAG_Tech]

Re: Thermostat replacement

17704 - Error in Mapped Cooling System (check Temp-Sensor and Thermostat)
P1296 - 35-00 - -

Had the temp sensor replaced with the greentop last year. Noticed in the last few months the car drops to almost 1/4 on the temp gauge when under load/speed then creeps up to almost center when idling for awhile. Heat isn't cold or anything but my butt-thermometer says it's not as hot.

I was just going by what vortex suggested. Do you think I should try another temp sensor first?

Thermostat is fooked by the sounds of it. Stuck open, or partially stuck open. At least it's better than having it stuck closed..

[100%VAGitarian]

Re: Thermostat replacement

Wow thanks for the offer - I might take you up on it depending on timing etc - I have a semi-heated garage, tools and beer.

Problem is it's the only winter capable car so I have to make sure the wife doesn't need it. Might end up at one of the dealers just because I can leave it while at work.

shoot me a pm. it's warming up this week so it could be done in the evening.

nordex
Quote:

"Sounds like my problem."

so 1.8T thermostat group buy.

[Jester B]

Re: Thermostat replacement

17704 - Error in Mapped Cooling System (check Temp-Sensor and Thermostat)
P1296 - 35-00 - -

Did your car throw a CEL, or were you just doing a random scan? Symptoms prompted you to look? I haven't done a scan, but am also thinking I've got an issue as well.

[The_Stig]

Re: Thermostat replacement

17704 - Error in Mapped Cooling System (check Temp-Sensor and Thermostat)
P1296 - 35-00 - -

Had the temp sensor replaced with the greentop last year. Noticed in the last few months the car drops to almost 1/4 on the temp gauge when under load/speed then creeps up to almost center when idling for awhile. Heat isn't cold or anything but my butt-thermometer says it's not as hot.

I was just going by what vortex suggested. Do you think I should try another temp sensor first?

I have this exact problem. My just threw a code yesterday. I drive and it cools way down, sit and idel and it slowly warms back up but still never reaches 90. I talked to george at tune dub and he said its for sure the thermostat stuck open. He said they are a big pain to do on the 1.8T and the Vr6. I will be visiting him soon to get mine done also.

[100%VAGitarian]

Re: Thermostat replacement

i'll do the job for someone and they can take pics for a nice time/money saving DIY.

i did this job thursday, last week. did not remove the alternator.