Thermostat housing

[hr8882]

I have a 2002 Ranger 3.0L. I want to make a gasket for the thermostat housing as the OEM O ring starts leaking about 6 months after it being replaced. Anyone see any reason I can’t make a gasket? Thanks guys

 

[Curious Hound]

Could you post pictures of the recess in the water pump body or block and also of the recess in the thermostat housing? I have a 93 and it just takes a gasket. So I haven't seen your setup.

On the surface, my recommendation is to stick with what Ford designed. anything else is likely to cause trouble. You could possibly try installing both O-ring and gasket. But I'm not sure that's a good idea. You could end up cracking the thermostat housing by adding something that doesn't belong there. Are you sure you are installing the O-ring properly? ie; on top of thermostat flange or under it. That will certainly make a difference.

 

[pjtoledo]

I apply some silicone grease to prevent corrosion.
clean the recesses real good, scrape any white-ish areas, inspect for pitting.

 

[Curious Hound]

I apply some silicone grease to prevent corrosion.
clean the recesses real good, scrape any white-ish areas, inspect for pitting.

Grease or gasket sealant?

Grease, like clear plumbers grease or Superlube will help the O-ring squish and conform to the space better and is easier to clean up next time.

Gasket sealant may also help nicely, but will be a real pain to clean out next time you replace the thermostat.

Your choice.