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2008 JK 3.8 Thermostat housing leak

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5.5K views 5 replies 2 participants last post by  rrands1  
R
#1 ·
I have an 08 JK that is leaking fluid between the metal (block?) and the plastic housing that holds the thermostat & connects to the hose. Initially I thought maybe the housing was bad, so I bought a new one, new thermostat, and new hose while I was at it. Put the thermostat in (I *think* it's in right-side up - it didn't seem to fit the other way), and the round rubber seal that goes around it, and torqued the housing down with the two bolts.

It is still leaking. I also accidentally (meaning it was a listed part (??), and I didn't know this model Jeep does not use them) ordered a thermostat gasket, which didn't seem to fit, so I didn't use it.

Any tips on what might be wrong, or possible solutions? I thought about just using some RTV around the housing perimeter & then torquing, and while I am sure that will make future replacements more difficult, any other drawbacks? I searched the forum but didn't find any subjects that were relevant w/ solutions other than "replace the housing", which I have done.


Thank you in advance - I appreciate it!

-randy
 
#3 ·
The video clearly shows the gasket you should use at about 1:29 minute mark. you certain its leaking around the housing where it connects to the block? How is the hose? I had a new hose that leaked near the end. The parts house used a little plastic piece to hang it on the wall. I noticed that about 1/2 inch from the end they tiny hole. I just cut the end and put a new clamp.

Also if you used the old hose, it may have developed a SET in it where it conformed to the housing and you just did not put it back exactly.

 
R
#4 ·
Thank you so much - I had seen that video at some point, but then he says the gasket is unneeded, and the Amazon reviews for the gasket says it was not needed and did not fit well. So, when mine didn’t seem to line up (plus there is a gasket around the thermostat) I figured it was not needed. I just ordered one (again), and will let you know it it fits, and is useful.


THANK YOU for your reply - I appreciate it!
 
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