Mazda thermostat - A few observations

[widdowson2008]

Perhaps the Blueprint ones are not that bad after all

Well I wouldn't use one after my experience with Bluepoint , the difference with a Mazda one is huge!

Couldn't agree more. Not worth the small cost saving for such an important bit of kit. Having said that, the one I just took out wasn't all that bad in appearance and performance. Can they vary from stat to stat do you think? Still going to pan test the old one.

[bigdaddycain]

I'm due (at long last) to fit the last few Silicon hoses to my bongo in the near future... Along with a new mazda temp sensor, A "mikexgough" stat, and a new water pump ( The japanese tend to replace the stat AND pump as part of the coolant change related maintenance, who am i to disagree?) I'll flush the rad, refill with 35%/40% ratio of Carplans premium red longlife coolant (i've always used that coolant) Then a bleed and i should be good to go! I'll post up any findings/observations, but i'm not expecting any earth shattering revelations worthy of note.

[widdowson2008]

Hi Ste
Look forward to any data you can supply. Also, condition of stat to be removed together with state of any pipework you can see.
While you are doing the coolant change, it may be worthwhile just taking a look at the head core plugs. Don't know if you are aware but I just replaced one that literally had a hole in it. Could have been VERY naughty if not spotted. Not heard of this core problem before but certainly worth a visual. Takes seconds.
Also found that the sensor (drivers side, rear of head) was damaged. The insulated part had come adrift from the brass part. Connections were still there, but could have fractured at any time. Sensor replaced. I'll post some pics/stuff on it.

Just got back from a 10 mile run (after first checking coolant level, which had not moved since bleed yesterday). Stat is behaving as it did yesterday, so all is well.

[dobby]

Hi Ste
Look forward to any data you can supply. Also, condition of stat to be removed together with state of any pipework you can see.
While you are doing the coolant change, it may be worthwhile just taking a look at the head core plugs. Don't know if you are aware but I just replaced one that literally had a hole in it. Could have been VERY naughty if not spotted. Not heard of this core problem before but certainly worth a visual. Takes seconds.
Also found that the sensor (drivers side, rear of head) was damaged. The insulated part had come adrift from the brass part. Connections were still there, but could have fractured at any time. Sensor replaced. I'll post some pics/stuff on it.

Just got back from a 10 mile run (after first checking coolant level, which had not moved since bleed yesterday). Stat is behaving as it did yesterday, so all is well.

I had a core plug go on mine two years ago, it wasn't on the head but on the back of the block - meant that the gearbox had to be dropped. LCA triggered and water leak traced via water leaking via the starter motor.

[Rhinoman]

I was always never to reuse a thermostat had been boiled in that manner. The theory was that the thermostat could distort as it wasn't clamped in the manner in which it would be in a vehicle. The fact that yours changed its characteristics after it had been boiled once makes me wonder.

[widdowson2008]

I was always never to reuse a thermostat had been boiled in that manner. The theory was that the thermostat could distort as it wasn't clamped in the manner in which it would be in a vehicle. The fact that yours changed its characteristics after it had been boiled once makes me wonder.

The way I test them is by fixing them in an actual sectioned stat housing rig and chucking the lot a pan. So in fact I replicate what is pysically on a Bongo.
I do all this when the wife is out cos she would not approve of me using the cooker and her pans in this way.

[Rhinoman]

I was always never to reuse a thermostat had been boiled in that manner. The theory was that the thermostat could distort as it wasn't clamped in the manner in which it would be in a vehicle. The fact that yours changed its characteristics after it had been boiled once makes me wonder.

The way I test them is by fixing them in an actual sectioned stat housing rig and chucking the lot a pan. So in fact I replicate what is pysically on a Bongo.
I do all this when the wife is out cos she would not approve of me using the cooker and her pans in this way.

No problem then. Whilst you're utilising domestic appliances I'm told the dishwasher is very good for cleaning parts although I haven't tried this myself - she told me to do it myself!

[widdowson2008]

No problem then. Whilst you're utilising domestic appliances I'm told the dishwasher is very good for cleaning parts although I haven't tried this myself - she told me to do it myself!

You're joking Boss would KILL me. .................................however, wonder if I could do it without her finding out?

[alant54]

No problem then. Whilst you're utilising domestic appliances I'm told the dishwasher is very good for cleaning parts although I haven't tried this myself - she told me to do it myself!

You're joking Boss would KILL me. .................................however, wonder if I could do it without her finding out?

I think that if your dishes came out smelling of Gunk engine cleaner then she might get a little
suspicious.... .....

[widdowson2008]

No problem then. Whilst you're utilising domestic appliances I'm told the dishwasher is very good for cleaning parts although I haven't tried this myself - she told me to do it myself!

You're joking Boss would KILL me. .................................however, wonder if I could do it without her finding out?

I think that if your dishes came out smelling of Gunk engine cleaner then she might get a little
suspicious.... .....

a little suspicious - she would be on the bloody warpath I dare not bring her to any meets cos somebody would slip it out

[daveblueozzie]

If i remember i will take some pics this weekend of the stat I'm taking out, it only been in there a year and we did a complete coolant change as well, it will be interesting to see what it looks like after just a years use. its not a genuine stat, but the one going back in is a Mazda stat.

[widdowson2008]

Hi Dave
Would be terrifiic if you could , especially if you were to pen down the history too. I have built up a 'STAT' database. Boss keeps asking when I am going to get rid of some of them. Has turned into a museum of sorts.
I've also started another database of pumps. Sad I know, but it's the only way to find a behaviour patterns. So pump pics and data would be good too. (if you have the time/inclination)
Don't attempt to clean up any bits. I would like to see them 'as is.

[bigdaddycain]

Hi Ste
Look forward to any data you can supply. Also, condition of stat to be removed together with state of any pipework you can see.
While you are doing the coolant change, it may be worthwhile just taking a look at the head core plugs. Don't know if you are aware but I just replaced one that literally had a hole in it. Could have been VERY naughty if not spotted. Not heard of this core problem before but certainly worth a visual. Takes seconds.
Also found that the sensor (drivers side, rear of head) was damaged. The insulated part had come adrift from the brass part. Connections were still there, but could have fractured at any time. Sensor replaced. I'll post some pics/stuff on it.

No problem Steve... I'll be sure to point out any oddities i happen across, and check the core plug condition etc. Thanks.

[Alacrity]

Steve, I have my year old Bluepoint stat here if you want it. PM me your address if you do.

Geoff

[widdowson2008]

Steve, I have my year old Bluepoint stat here if you want it. PM me your address if you do.

Geoff

pm sent