need help with cooling system, and OH MY GOD

[Alan Pritchard]

Ok, lost my alternator belt the other day (1990 90q 10v) so next opportunity
I had I decided it would be a good idea to put it back on..
While I was in there I decided to do the t-belt and water pump (really
overdue, 2.5 years never done it). This all went really well.
Oh my god, someone put another 20-30 hp in my car!!! Really, it is that
torquey and revvy, I must have been a tooth out, and I haven't even re done
my ignition timing, 
Pulling away causes a minor squeal from all 4 wheels, never done that
before!!!!
Anyway, now my coolant keeps overflowing so I figure I should have changed
my thermostat at the same time?
Stupid me left the bottle lid off and went for a short drive, until the
warning light came on :-(
Re-filled later, but apparently low water candamage a thermostat, is that
correct?
Thanks guys
 
Best Regards,
Alan Pritchard
 
Network Administrator
Mechanical Design Engineer
Seaeye Marine Ltd.
+44 (0)1329 289000