Need to change Thermostat?

[Beefy'sB2300]

Well i have noticed that it has been taking a long time for engine to warm up. So im guessing the dang thing has stuck open. But it looks like that thing is gonna be a pain to replace. Anyone got any tips that could help me out? Looks like it would be easier if you could take the timeing belt cover off but looks like thats not easy. If anyone has any advice it would be greatly appreciated thanks. By the way its a 95 2.3

 

[hartwrenches]

You don't have to take the timing cover off. Drain part of the coolant so its below the thermostat housing. take the fan off for clearance. take the upper rad hose off. use a socket on a extension (one with a magnet or some grease so you don't loose the bolt).
leave the heater hose on and fold back the housing(neck), the thermostat is in the housing. use a scraper or a buffer on a long shaft to clean the gasket. use a little gasket tach to stick the new gasket to the housing and put it all back together.

Some new gaskets come like a sticker, just peel the back off and stick it on.

 

[reagd]

You don't have to take the timing cover off. Drain part of the coolant so its below the thermostat housing. take the fan off for clearance. take the upper rad hose off. use a socket on a extension (one with a magnet or some grease so you don't loose the bolt).
leave the heater hose on and fold back the housing(neck), the thermostat housing. use a scraper or a buffer on a long shaft to clean the gasket. use a little gasket tach to stick the new gasket to the housing and put it all back together.

Some new gaskets come like a sticker, just peel the back off and stick it on.

Geez. I am cleaning the gasket right now. I am having a hard time scraping things on it.