[This is 2002 Max SE manual]

Just wanted to ask, for people who have done this, how did you get the thermostat bolts off?
If your standing at the passenger fender with the hood open looking at the thermostat head on: the right top one is easy.
The bottom one is tricky but doable.
The top LEFT one is the one I cant get.
The thing which you use to adjust the belt tension is really close to the bolt and I cant get a ratchet in there.
Any ideas?
Can I get this off without taking off the belt tension-er thing?
Thanks

 

uh if its dek,, i was able to get it with a 1/4 drive wrench with a small extention and a 10mm small socket....but yes it was tricky, not something to do if ur ina rush. good luck

 

You can remove all the bolts without removing or loosening the bolt if you have a swivel head for your ratchet. Not easy though, might be better to just remove the belt.

 

1/4" ratchet, extension, standard 10 mm socket, deep 10 mm socket, and pliers(clamp removal) = The only tools I needed for my 02. No belt removal necessary. It does help to bring a little patience, too. Especially once you have coolant on your hands and are putting the bolts back in.

 

I had my 8yr old daughter put the bottom bolt back in for me......she has little hands/fingers.

 

I am assuming that the thermostat is located at the passenger side hose inlet to the engine. I have to replace mine and I am glad I found this information. I have short fat fingers so it looks like I am in for some fun. I will do the job myself if I can see the part, otherwise I leave most to the professionals.

 

Just use the new thermostat as a 'map' of where the bolts are located exactly.

 

Thanks, it looks pretty easy. I have the thermostat, now I just have to have the time and no rain at the same time.