Question re: Thermostat for Suburban

[KaraBoo]

I have a 1995 3/4ton Suburban with a 454 engine (2wd).

The engine thermostat went out on it. We've already replaced it, but DH was curious as to why it was stuck in the open position - like it had been snagged by a piece on the side. He said he has never seen one do that before and he's changed out several tstats in his life.

My thought was this particular part was designed to do that when it failed. He doesn't think so. He posted the question on another forum but hasn't received any replies yet, so I figured I'd try you guys.

Any ideas?

[tskeeter]

I agree with your logic that the thermostat was probably designed to fail in the open position. This would keep the engine from over heating and allow it to continue to run, even if it is under less than optimal conditions. If the thermostat fails in the closed position, the engine over heats, damages the engine, and eventually stops all together.

[kent]

Jan 9, 2012 21:51:19 GMT -5 KaraBoo said:

I have a 1995 3/4ton Suburban with a 454 engine (2wd).

The engine thermostat went out on it. We've already replaced it, but DH was curious as to why it was stuck in the open position - like it had been snagged by a piece on the side. He said he has never seen one do that before and he's changed out several tstats in his life.

My thought was this particular part was designed to do that when it failed. He doesn't think so. He posted the question on another forum but hasn't received any replies yet, so I figured I'd try you guys.

Any ideas?

You are correct about it being designed to "fail" in the fully open position. I had an Acura with one of those and it failed in a snow storm. It was really cold in the car because the heater didn't work due to lack of hot water but at least I wasn't stuck on the side of the road up to my ears in snow.

[KaraBoo]

I love it when I'm right! Thanks guys!

I won't rub it in DH face toooo much.