This is not a difficult part to replace, but it does require you to remove the belt and one pulley. A good time to replace this part is at the 80 to 100K inspection interval since you will already be removing / replacing the belt and pulleys. You must also drain about 1 gallon of coolant out of the radiator in preparation.
Product Details
Kit includes:
- New thermostat ( M272 only )
- New thermostat gasket
- New radiator hose o-ring seal
- Small container of silicone grease
- Kent's PARTIAL video instructions
What do we mean by "partial instructions?" The video you will receive was filmed by Kent replacing the thermostat on a M272 V6. The procedure is the same as the V8 except for the removal of the top rigid hose on some V8 models. You should be able to work around that without much problem ( or you can google for M273 top radiator hose).
Failure is more common and happens more often with these thermostats due to the internal temperature probe that goes down through the center of the housing. It is much better to replace this as a preventative measure to prevent engine overheating.
Consider doing the complete belt and pulley service. You can also purchase Kent's special tensioner wrench separately below. 272273
Related Products:
M272 V6 M273 V8 Drive Belt and Pulley Replacement Kit w/ Free Tool
Yes, that is correct. These are the same parts on all 272 V6 and 273 V8 from 2006 to 2013. That is a few million cars that are now all aging, and many have not had these parts replaced. I am not sure why many shops do not even recommend this service before something fails!
M112 M272 V6 M113 M273 V8 Belt Tension Release and Drive Belt Install Tool Set
Includes a long custom bent 3/8 extension, correct socket, plastic mirror, and locking pin. You add another 3/8 extension to make the job a snap. Watch the video below for a full explanation of this tool and how it works.