11-17 Ford Mustang 3.7 V6 Thermostat Change Removal & Installation

Published on October 20, 2020
Duration: 8:23

This guide details the process of replacing the thermostat on a 2011-2017 Ford Mustang with a 3.7L V6 engine. It covers the removal of the old thermostat, cleaning the mating surfaces, installation of the new thermostat, and proper coolant refilling and bleeding procedures. The video emphasizes using the correct tools, ensuring the engine is cold, and performing heat cycles to properly seat the new gasket and prevent leaks. It also touches on the benefits of a lower-temperature thermostat for tuned vehicles.

Quick Summary

Replacing the thermostat on a 2011-2017 Ford Mustang 3.7 V6 requires an 8mm 6-point socket, ratchet, and extension. Ensure the engine is cold, catch spilled coolant, and clean mating surfaces for a proper seal. Torque aluminum housing bolts to approximately 10-12 foot-pounds. Perform heat cycles to seat the gasket and prevent leaks.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Purpose
  2. 00:59Locating Thermostat Housing
  3. 01:04Removing Thermostat Housing Bolts
  4. 02:02Removing Old Thermostat
  5. 02:38Cleaning Mating Surfaces
  6. 02:57Installing New Thermostat
  7. 03:13Reinstalling Housing & Torque Specs
  8. 03:41Refilling Coolant & Bleeding System
  9. 04:06Test Drive & Heat Cycles
  10. 04:47Conclusion & Playlist

Frequently Asked Questions

What tools are needed to change the thermostat on a 2011-2017 Ford Mustang 3.7 V6?

You will need an 8mm 6-point socket, a 1/4" drive ratchet with an extension, a screwdriver for prying, a coolant pan to catch spills, and rags for cleaning. Using a 6-point socket is crucial to prevent rounding the bolt heads.

How much coolant will I lose when replacing the thermostat on a Ford Mustang 3.7 V6?

You can expect to lose a significant amount of coolant, potentially a gallon or more, especially if the coolant reservoir is full. It's essential to have a pan ready to catch the fluid and to perform the procedure on a cold engine to minimize burns.

What is the correct torque specification for the thermostat housing bolts on a 2011-2017 Ford Mustang 3.7 V6?

While the torque spec for plastic housings is 89 inch-pounds, the Mustang 3.7 V6 features an aluminum housing. It's recommended to torque these bolts slightly higher, around 10-12 foot-pounds, to ensure a good seal without stripping the threads.

Why is it important to clean the mating surfaces before installing a new thermostat?

Cleaning the mating surfaces on both the engine block and the thermostat housing is critical. This ensures a dry surface for the new thermostat's rubber gasket to create a proper seal, preventing coolant leaks. Water or debris can compromise the seal.

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