Thermostat Housings

Is your old thermostat housing cracking, is coolant seeping at the gasket, or do you need the thermostat to open at a different temperature? Here we collect housings and water outlets for the cooling system. The parts are for you if you are repairing, upgrading or building a project with higher demands on cooling.

What the thermostat housing does

The thermostat housing holds the thermostat in place and routes coolant from the engine on to the radiator, often via a water outlet for the upper radiator hose. A cracked or corroded housing can cause leaks and air in the system and, in the worst case, overheating. Some housings come with a thermostat. Granatelli Motor Sports, for example, offers billet housings with a thermostat in two temperature versions. If you only need to replace the thermostat itself, you will find it among our thermostats.

How to choose a thermostat housing

• Fit: The housing must fit your specific engine. Check the part number against car, model year and engine.
• Opening temperature: If a thermostat is included, the choice depends on engine, use and engine management. A lower temperature is not automatically better.
• Connections: Some housings have an extra port, such as a replacement model from Fleece Performance, which can be used for a sensor or an additional hose.
• Construction: Consider whether you want a direct replacement for the original or an upgraded billet housing.

Installation and maintenance

Use a new gasket or O-ring and clean the mating surfaces thoroughly. Tighten the bolts evenly and to specification so the housing does not warp or crack. After installation, the cooling system must be bled. Check for leaks when the engine is warm. It can be a good idea to check the filler at the same time. We also have coolant filler necks and the full range of thermostats, housings and filler necks. Brands in the category also include Wehrli, Gates and OMIX.

Frequently asked questions

Should I replace the thermostat when I replace the thermostat housing?

It is often a good idea, since the housing is removed anyway. Some housings come with a thermostat. Otherwise, choose a thermostat with the opening temperature that suits your engine and use.

How can I tell if the thermostat housing is faulty?

Typical signs are coolant at the housing joint, white deposits, visible cracks or a dropping coolant level. However, the signs can also be caused by hoses or the gasket, so check the whole area.

What can an extra port on the thermostat housing be used for?

An extra port provides a connection for, for example, a temperature sensor or an additional coolant hose. Whether you will need it depends on your project. An unused port must be sealed tightly with the correct plug.