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bobbber · Posted: Sun Nov 07, 2004 7:54 pm Post subject: Thermostat & pipe replacement

Hello!

I'm having REAL problems replacing the Thermostat on my Series III 1.7IE.

All the other posts I've read on here make it out to be a quick job!!!

I'm basically having problems getting the pipes on and off, it's an accessibilty issue. I removed the Alternator which has given me better access, and the bonnet, and I've managed to get the old thermostat and pipes (5 of them, all perished) removed.

But now I don't seem to be able to mount the new thermostat and the pipes - my hands are too big for the job???? Laughing

I'm thinking next of removing the intake manifold, but can't imagine this is the best method of 'getting in there'....

Does anyone have an idea of how this job can be made easy (or even just a little easier!)

Cheerz,
_________________
Fiat Bravo 165 Sport

gritsop · Posted: Sun Nov 07, 2004 10:53 pm Post subject:

Hi,

The easier way to have your thermostat replaced is to remove the intake manifold.

6 nuts in total - remove the accelerator cable, two water hoses (going to the water tank) and the clamp of the rubber sleeve located in the accelerator pedal.

It is wasted time and effort to have removed the alternator and bonnet! Rolling Eyes

Anyway if you remove the manifold be sure to have two new manifold gaskets to replace the old ones.

Also don't hesitate to replace the thermostat's hoses as these are having a hard time due to high temperature coming from the engine block.

Hope this helped,

Regards,
_________________
Thanassis Gritsopoulos
1991 Alfa 33 1.4 IE
2001 Alfa 147 1.6 Distinctive

http://www.alfa-restoration.co.uk
Parts Shop: www.alfa-restoration.co.uk/shop

bobbber · Posted: Mon Nov 08, 2004 11:43 am Post subject:

Thanks Gritsop!

I'll try that.... got the gaskets on order.

Rob
_________________
Fiat Bravo 165 Sport

bobbber · Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 12:53 pm Post subject:

Done it.... 4 hours.... not bad for a first try?

Took me longer to put the stuff back on that I removed in error, than it would have taken to do the whole job!!!! Laughing

Thanks Grit!
_________________
Fiat Bravo 165 Sport

gritsop · Posted: Mon Nov 22, 2004 4:05 pm Post subject:

Hi,

Glad everything's in place!

Nevermind, the best way to learn is via trial and error Wink

Regards,
_________________
Thanassis Gritsopoulos
1991 Alfa 33 1.4 IE
2001 Alfa 147 1.6 Distinctive

http://www.alfa-restoration.co.uk
Parts Shop: www.alfa-restoration.co.uk/shop

RFlower · Posted: Tue Nov 23, 2004 1:43 pm Post subject:

I usually make a note in my Haynes Manual when I find an easier way to do something, as I've forgotten by the time I do some job again. - That's if I remember to make the note!

e.g. Rear brake cylinders can easily be removed (on Bendix brakes) without removing the shoes, in spite of what Mr. Haynes says, just by pushing the adjuster lever inwards to expand the shoes. The cylinders can then be lifted out, after undoing bolts and disconnecting the pipes, of course.
_________________
Dick Flower, Nr. Carcassonne. '94 Trofeo 1.4 ie (F), '93 Imola 1.3/1.4 ie (now for breaking) (F), '91 1.7 ie (GB)(spare car), '86 Sprint 1.5 QV (F). '87 VW Syncro camper (F), '73 NSU Ro80 (F), '99 Fiat Seicento (F)