In the effort to get my heat back and solve the temp gauge problem, I bought a thermostat to replace since I have never had it done. I was fising around in my engine looking for the thermostat and I think I found where it is, but it doesnt look very easy to replace. It seems tucked in behind one of the belt covers and below the main hose. Has anyone done this themselves or have a write up on how to do it?

 

It will take about 20 minutes realisticly (is that a word?).

Where the radiator hose goes to the engine block, that has to come off, I think it is held down by 3 bolts. Once that is removed, the thermostat will be visible. Make sure to replace it in the correct direction. And also buy some RTV since you will need it to seal.

Its quite easy and no belt covers have to come off. I did mine in August on a VG.

 

hmmm.. looks like mien might need to be replaced too! Im getting luke warm heat when the heater **** is all the way in the red.. and its not the coolent. how much was the thermostat also?

 

I got mine for about $4 at autozone.

 

oh SWEET!! haha i thought this was gonna be another $100 dollar part.. ok, now back to the subject.

 

I took a pic of where I think the thermostat is located, but it seems difficult to get to. Is it at the end of that pipe that kinda bends down below the hoses?
http://wsphotofews.excite.com/041/ss/sn/hk/YA19933.jpg

 

Yes = 3 bolts

 

here is a diagram with part numbers, of the real location not where everyone claims it is...
its just back from ignition amplifier on "drivers side"

http://forums.maxima.org/attachment....1&d=1358987528

 

just did mine piece of cake,,I thought it would be a tough job and now my heat is awesome and my temp gage stays in the middle

 

That is a VE Engine . The original poster has a VG engine.