Thermostat Housing Gasket - Coolant Leak

91chrysler08

NO.: 07-02-91

GROUP: COOLING

DATE: July 15, 1991


SUBJECT: Thermostat Housing Gasket Coolant Leak 3.9L And 5.2L Engines


MODELS:

1990 - 1991 (AB) Ram Van/Wagon (RWD)
(AD) Ram Pickup (RWD, 4WD)/Ram Cab & Chassis
Ramcharger (RWD, 4WD)/Power Ram Cab & Chassis (4WD)
(AN) Dakota/Dakota Sport/Dakota Cab & Chassis


DISCUSSION:

A new thermostat gasket PN 53020198 has been released for service. The new gasket has a silicon bead on one side and provides improved sealing.

This new gasket should be used when diagnosis indicates a thermostat gasket coolant leak.

NOTE: THIS NEW GASKET MAY ALSO BE USED ON ALL 1971 THROUGH 1989 DOMESTIC, CHRYSLER, DODGE, PLYMOUTH, CARS AND TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 5.2L AND 5.9L ENGINES.


PARTS REQUIRED:

1 - Gasket, Thermostat Housing PN 53020198

Figure 1:

REPAIR PROCEDURE:

This repair involves draining the cooling system and replacing the thermostat gasket.

NOTE: THE NEW GASKET HAS A BEAD OF SILICON ON ONE SIDE OF THE GASKET ONLY.


1. Drain the cooling system and remove the thermostat as outlined in the appropriate service manual.

2. Thoroughly clean the thermostat housing and intake manifold mating surfaces.

3. Place the new gasket PN 53020198 onto the thermostat opening in the intake manifold. The silicon bead on the new gasket must face up. Figure 1.


4. Insert the thermostat (spring side down) through the gasket into the opening in the intake manifold.

5. Install the housing over the thermostat. Ensure the thermostat is positioned in the recess in the housing.

6. Tighten the mounting bolts to 200 in.lbs (23 N-m) torque.

7. Fill the cooling system as outlined in the appropriate service manual.


POLICY: Information only