Finally got around to installing the 180 Motorcraft Thermostat. I ran out of time and will have to get back to it hopefully sometime during the weekend. I got through the hardest part, which was just removing the thermostat. Figuring out how to reach and get to things in the tight confines and what tools to use was the challenge. Now that i know how it comes out, going back together should be smooth. I took a bunch of photos as usual, because I like to document my process and procedures for future reference. Here are just a couple that briefly captured the moment.
Once access to the thermostat is available it's not too bad.
Room for activities.
Thermostat housing assembly removed.
Disassembled.
Some visible crud on the thermostat.
The old OE thermostat. I could not locate a stamping on it to indicate what temperature that thermostat was. I was surprised to see that much deposit build up on the thermostat. The ball bearing in the bleeder was no longer able to move as freely as the new thermostat.
Old next to new.
Chasing the gasket surface with fine wet sanding.
Housing ready for the new thermostat and gaskets.
New assembly with 180 thermostat ready to go back on.
I will be doing a chemical coolant flush to help remove any more deposits that may be in the system and especially the water pump.