Hi all. I again had the famous thermostat housing leak, and decided that as I don't want to waste another two gallons of anti-freeze and decided to tackle the Water pump as well.
I read several write ups on this and it looked pretty daunting.


I attacked the problem with zeal, and a cold six pack.


After placing the car in service mode, I detached the radiator hoses.
Removing the Intercooler I could loosen the throttle body and I had access to the water pump, easily removing it without removing anything else.


Then I made a Mistake.......
I thought it prudent to check the OIL level in the rear of the Super-charger. I removed the plug and oil started to run out! (No kidding right?, I didn't;t realize that you can't add or check the oil with the SC on the car.)


I was able to check and refill the FRONT side of the SC.


Reassembled the car and.....discovered that the NEW thermostat didn't seal properly.
Does anyone have a BETTER thermostat gasket recommendation?

 

PS. You can now purchase the Thermostat Gasket separately. FEL-PRO 35964. 12 Month warranty.

 

Problem is....
It is kinda part of the thermostat...
And thermosts go bad.... So just replacing both is usually a good idea...
And one tip...
Catch the used radiator fluid....if it is less than 3 years old...it can be reused....
But it is so cheap...I would toss it...and refill....the radiator fluid change/flush is THE most overlooked mantance item on a gen1 car...due every 36-48 months from the date of production......most ignore this...and end up with a plugged heater core...or worse...a head gasket issue.