Fixing coolant leak in 4.0 upper/lower thermostat housing

[patrick82]

So my mechanic did a pressure test of my cooling system, noticed i have a leak in the thermostat housing and quoted 600.00 for repair. I thought that was high so i went online and found all the parts for 250.00....and a great write up on changing them out.

I'm thinking about giving it a shot myself.

Mechanic says there may be slight differences between the parts (designated by the VIN) but I'm not seeing any of the parts listed that way at any of the suppliers. (partsgeek, Rock Auto, Ford, etc.)

Has anyone seen variations on the housings for different years/VIN's??

Anyone done this job before? ..Any tips?

Truck is a 98 Explorer with the 4.0 SOHC

 

[swshawaii]

Follow this thread carefully. Benefits are an upgraded housing and saved $$$

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=239493

 

[patrick82]

the main question i have is - do i need the
Thermostat Assembly Sensors Not Included
Dorman W0133-1934916 $131.85 $131.85

if i purchase:
Thermostat Housing
Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing -- To 7/24/00; Includes Upper and Lower Housing
---------------------------------
i have bought the following allready:

Thermostat = 10.00
Thermostat Gasket = 2.00
Thermostat Housing Gasket 2.00
Thermostat Housing = 80.00
i have also went to the ford website to purchase the bolts and the sensors

 

[swshawaii]

I prefer OEM Ford replacement parts unless they are suspension or brake related.
The older lower t-stat housing has a known issue of threaded sensors that leak.
You can upgrade the housing with only a few Motorcraft parts. Lower housing,
both sensors,retainer clips, and two o-ring seals. Thermostat and bypass hose optional.

 

[swshawaii]

Oops!