Around these parts the roads are 55mph and the Buicks are huge and driven slowly by the townfolk, often with high beams blaring even though it is not dark. Tonight was such a night. I have not needed my highbeams in a year (except to signal others to dim theirs) but these folks are addicted...
I checked mine after reading this thread. But while I was in there checking it I just replaced it. Took a half hour. The old part looked good but the rubber had tiny cracks in it.
I pulled the top rad shroud, serp belt and fan. It was easy to access from the top. Put a piece of cardboard...
Mine goes to the midpoint, then drops quickly when the thermostat opens. I have a new rad and 195 stat.
Open the bleeder screw and put some rags around it. Then add coolant til it comes out the screw, and tighten the screw.
CarQuest sells a lice sticky gasket that holds the thermostat against the flange while you line things up. I did mine last night in only 1-1/2 beers.:cool: