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Chrysler Repair/'04 3.5L LX thermostat change out

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Expert: - 2/5/2012


Question
I have a 2004 Chrysler concorde and need to change the thermostat but the air intake resonator or manifold is in the way. I removed 7 bolts holding down the manifold to move it out of the way but it still will not move. I can't figure it out. any help would be much appreciated.thanks

Answer
Hi Mike,
The thermostat is not where you think it is if this is a 3.5L engine. You don't have to remove the manifold or resonator. Follow the lower radiator hose to the engine, that is where you will find it. You remove the oil pressure and power steering pressure switch plugs, Then remove the radiator and heater hoses from the thermostat housing. Note that the original thernostat is staked in place, but the replacement doesn't have to be so just grind off the metal of the "staking" and then install the new thermostat. Tighten the housing bolts to 105 inch-pounds.
Roland
PS Let me know if this is a 2.7L and I can tell you how to do that thermostat.

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Roland Finston

Expertise

I specialize in Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth cars, minivans, and SUV's for the model years 1982-2008 based upon my 50-year DIY experience, factory shop manuals and wiring diagrams. I offer fast repair advice to help you minimize repair costs by helping you diagnose and do it yourself. Problems with electronically controlled engines and transmissions as well as body wiring problems are my specialty.

I take questions one at a time between 8am and 10pm CT and attempt to answer within 20 minutes. "Maxed Out" means I am answering another question of otherwise busy, so try again later.

There are answers on file to more than sixteen thousand Chrysler questions at your finger tips: put a few key words in the "find" box (above) or click on "view past answers" for a chronological list of my q and a's. Don't use "Add to this answer" if you still have a question...ask it. As to trucks and jeeps I only have manuals for the '04-'06 model years.

Experience

Five decades as a 'do-it-yourselfer' on domestic and imported cars

Organizations
Yahoo Autos Group called The Chrysler Lebaron Club (co-moderator)

Education/Credentials
Degrees in Physics/bruised knuckles.

Awards and Honors
"Top expert of 2010" and "2011" at Allexperts. Among top 50 experts for years 2006-2009 at Allexperts.

Quickest "average response time" at Allexperts (currently no. 1).

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