2007 3.0 I automatic transmission cooler thermostat won’t come out

[bcolins]

I am replacing my coolant recovery tank on my 07 3.0 I automatic roadster. When I pulled the coolant recovery tank up, the transmission cooler thermostat had come apart, fortunately I had a new one from FCP EURO. I’ve seen several videos online showing how to remove the thermostat with needle nose, pliers, but the plastic Immediately broke when I tried to grab it with pliers. I then tried using the clip with its 90° bend from the bottom of the recovery tank to grab an edge of the thermostat and pull up and then eventually all the plastic in the crossbars broke as well. Now wondering how to get the old thermostat out so I can put my new one in and then install my recovery tank and wrap up this project.

 

[enuff_zed]

Instead of just pulling, try rotating it to loosen it.

 

[bcolins]

I sprayed the thermostat with PB blaster last night hoping it would allow at least the upper O-ring to release from the thermostat housing,....I jest tried again,.....applying a lot up upward force using a 90 degree mechanics pick,.....that thing is not moving.

Suggestions?

 

[bcolins]

I tried rotating and that did make some progress, but it broke the top half of the thermostat away leaving a portion inside that will not come out. So just going to go ahead and order whatever that part is that the thermostat resides in. I’m not even sure what to call that. Transmission cooler thermostat housing maybe

 

[AndyJ1]

I remember having the same problem on my e86. I had to purchase the part that the thermostat fits in also.