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For 1990-2009 cars only

Thermostat Test Procedure Using Tempilsticks


Object Number: 1207743  Size: SH

The coolant thermostat can be tested using a temperature (tempil) stick. The temperature stick is a pencil like device. It has a wax material containing certain chemicals which melt at a given temperature. Temperature sticks can be used to determine a thermostat's operating range, by rubbing 87°C (188°F) and 97°C (206°F) sticks on the thermostat housing (4).

Tools Required

J 24731 Tempilstick

  1. Use a tempilstick in order to find the opening and the closing temperatures of the coolant thermostat.
  2. • J 24731-188 tempilstick melts at 87°C (188°F). The thermostat should begin to open at 90°C (194°F).
    • J 24731-206 tempilstick melts at 97°C (206°F). The thermostat should be fully open at 107°C (225°F).
  3. Replace the coolant thermostat if it does not operate properly between this temperature range. Refer to Engine Coolant Thermostat Replacement .