Stant 45358 Superstat Premium Thermostat Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Stant 45358 Superstat Premium Thermostat. Adhering to these instructions will help ensure optimal performance and longevity of the product and your vehicle's cooling system. The Stant Superstat thermostat is engineered for precise temperature control and enhanced cooling efficiency.

2. Product Overview and Features

The Stant 45358 Superstat Premium Thermostat is designed to provide superior engine temperature regulation. Key features include:

• Premium Superstat thermostat design.
• High venturi for maximum cooling capacity during high temperature, high load operation.
• 25% larger piston diameter, delivering 1.5 times the power of standard thermostats.
• Stainless steel flange, burnished to a bright finish for stress relief and enhanced corrosion resistance.
• Thicker flange for improved durability.

Figure 2.1: Front view of the Stant 45358 Superstat Premium Thermostat, showcasing its robust construction.

3. Installation Instructions

Proper installation is critical for the correct function of the thermostat. If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified automotive technician.

3.1 Safety Precautions

• Ensure the engine is completely cool before beginning work to avoid burns from hot coolant or engine components.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and gloves.
• Dispose of old coolant responsibly according to local regulations.

3.2 General Installation Steps

1. Drain Coolant: Place a drain pan under the radiator and open the drain cock or remove the lower radiator hose to drain the engine coolant.
2. Locate Thermostat Housing: Identify the thermostat housing, typically located at the engine end of the upper radiator hose.
3. Remove Housing: Loosen and remove the bolts securing the thermostat housing. Carefully remove the housing and the old thermostat. Note the orientation of the old thermostat for correct installation of the new one.
4. Clean Mounting Surfaces: Thoroughly clean the thermostat housing and engine block mounting surfaces. Remove any old gasket material or corrosion to ensure a proper seal.
5. Install New Thermostat: Place the new Stant 45358 Superstat thermostat into the housing or engine block, ensuring it is oriented correctly (usually with the spring facing the engine). Use a new gasket.
6. Reattach Housing: Reinstall the thermostat housing, tightening the bolts evenly to the manufacturer's specified torque.
7. Refill Coolant: Close the radiator drain cock or reattach the lower radiator hose. Refill the cooling system with the appropriate coolant mixture.
8. Bleed Air: Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature with the heater on full. Monitor the coolant level and add more as needed to remove any trapped air from the system. Check for leaks.

Figure 3.1: Side view of the Stant 45358 Superstat Premium Thermostat, showing the spring mechanism.

Figure 3.2: Dimensional drawing of the Stant 45358 Superstat Premium Thermostat, indicating key measurements for fitment.

4. Operating Principles

The Stant Superstat thermostat employs a unique design for precise engine temperature control, differing from conventional thermostats that cycle open and closed. It features a v-notch, non-linear design that minimizes cycling by accurately metering the coolant flow to maintain the optimal operating temperature.

Initially, the v-notch allows a small amount of coolant to flow. As the engine warms up, the v-notch gradually opens wider, progressively increasing coolant flow into the system until the desired engine temperature is achieved and maintained.

Figure 4.1: Illustration detailing the unique v-notch design and operational mechanism of Superstat Thermostats.

5. Maintenance

The Stant 45358 Superstat Premium Thermostat is designed for durability and reliable performance. Regular maintenance of your vehicle's cooling system is essential to ensure the thermostat functions correctly and to prolong its lifespan.

• Coolant Checks: Regularly check your coolant level and condition. Ensure it is at the proper level and free from contaminants.
• Coolant Flush: Follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations for coolant flush and replacement intervals. Old or contaminated coolant can lead to corrosion and thermostat malfunction.
• Hose Inspection: Periodically inspect radiator and heater hoses for cracks, leaks, or signs of deterioration. Replace any damaged hoses promptly.
• System Leaks: Address any cooling system leaks immediately to prevent low coolant levels and potential engine damage.

6. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your vehicle's cooling system after thermostat installation, consider the following common problems and solutions:

• Engine Overheating:
  • Possible Cause: Air trapped in the cooling system.
  • Solution: Ensure the cooling system is properly bled of air after refilling.
  • Possible Cause: Incorrect thermostat installation (e.g., installed backward).
  • Solution: Recheck thermostat orientation.
  • Possible Cause: Faulty thermostat (rare for new parts).
  • Solution: Test the thermostat in hot water to verify opening temperature, or replace if suspected faulty.
  • Possible Cause: Other cooling system issues (low coolant, faulty water pump, clogged radiator).
  • Solution: Inspect the entire cooling system.
• Engine Running Cold (Slow to Warm Up):
  • Possible Cause: Thermostat stuck open.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat.
  • Possible Cause: Incorrect temperature rating for the vehicle.
  • Solution: Verify the correct thermostat temperature rating for your specific vehicle application.
• Coolant Leaks:
  • Possible Cause: Improperly seated gasket or damaged housing.
  • Solution: Recheck gasket installation and housing condition. Ensure bolts are tightened to specification.

7. Specifications

The following specifications apply to the Stant 45358 Superstat Premium Thermostat:

Figure 7.1: Bottom view of the thermostat, indicating the temperature rating (e.g., 180°F).

Figure 7.2: Top view of the Stant 45358 Superstat Premium Thermostat.

8. Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty or technical support, please contact Stant customer service directly. Refer to the official Stant website or product packaging for the most current contact details and warranty policy.

Note: This product is subject to Proposition 65 warning. For more information, please refer to the product packaging or official Stant resources.