I'm gonna be buying a new thermostat tommarow, because of my overheating problems; and I wanted to ask you guys if I am able to replace the thermostat easily without a PITA. And what tools and materials will I need to replace it?

I might change the radiator too, since I never changed it since my dad bought the truck brand new.

 

The T-stat is a Piece of cake , no sh**! 2 10mm nuts, whalla! Either upgrade to a HP T-stat or go with an OEM. If you go with an OEM cut that damn nipple off, of all my experience if you go with a cheap aftermarket the SOB will overheat on you! The rad, really isn't that bad either, take the fan clutch,fan and shroud off to make it a hell of a lot easier!
Take Care!

 

not to hijack but can you please post a pic to where it is located? Thanks. 2nd gen 4runner.

 

How about the gasket for the thermostat housing, how do I replace it? Or do i reuse the old one?

 

Freshman, its on the bottom of the engine, where the lower radiator hose leads into the engine. Right behind the radiotor fan.

 

Replace it. They are like $2 at NAPA or similar. It simply goes around the new thermo like a big o-ring. At least that's how it is on the 5VZ - I assume the 3VZ is the same way.

 

My engine has been overheating, so I took out the thermostat. I can't tell if it's sticking or not. I'll probably buy a new one tomorrow. Would it hurt to run it w/o the thermostat until I replace it?

Thanks,

~Shawn

 

Nevermind, I let it sit running while I came up here and checked in to the thermostat, and it's still overheating. Back to the drawing board...

~S