[s-cars] Failing thermostat - thanks

[J. Khang]

Well, I want to thank everyone on the list for all the
helpful advice. I changed the thermostat this evening
after work and the fuel consumption has improved
markedly. I used to have to try hard to get 26mpg but
am easily getting 30-32 mpg (Imperial) now.

An observation that might be useful for anyone else
wondering about their thermostat is that the
temperature reported by the climate controller should
initially stay completely static whilst the car warms
up. It will then rise rapidly once the coolant gauge
approaches 90C.

If the temperature reported by the climate controller
creeps up gradually along with the coolant temperature
gauge then this means that the thermostat is leaking.
Mine was and the new thermostat has a plastic seal
that the old one did not.

Another thing, get yourselves a long extension with a
wobbly 10mm socket and ratchet drive. Makes the job
very easy. I didn't have this and it took me half an
hour before I gave up, drove to my mechanic's and
borrowed his tools.

Jonathan
'96 S6

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