did not mean to say this is something that would be a solution. just a troublshotting step. if you overheat with the tstat out, the tstat is not your problem.

also, if you take the tstat out you can flush the system with the engine cold / off.

 

OP, whats your next move?

 

set it on fire
just kidding, hoping to get chance to mess with it some more this weekend
thanks to this thread, i have a bunch of things to check out as i continue to try to trouble shoot it
(looks like i'll probably also need another gallon of that special MINI blue koolant juice & distilled water)

 

https://i.makeagif.com/media/12-06-2022/DKtrit.gif

 

let us know how you get on

 

The Thermostat is only about $15.00 might as well just replace it with another new one.

Motor On!