My Thermostat wasn’t working properly so I took it in to get replaced. The Guy at the desk said i had to buy the Housing along with a Thermostat as it comes in a Kit. I checked my truck before & there was no leaks or smell. This cost me an extra $150. I would like to know if I needed the Housing or just replace the Thermostat? Thanks, Dave.
The thermostat is a part of the housing in the 2.3L engine but not the 4.0L engine. So the entire housing would need to be replaced if you have the 4 cylinder engine but not if you have the V6. See the thermostat diagrams below for reference.
2011 Ford Ranger 2.3L Thermostat Diagram
2011 Ford Ranger 4.0L Thermostat Diagram
Thermostat replacement 2.3L engine
Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing R&R
- Drain cooling system.
- Disconnect lower radiator hose, see diagram above.
- Disconnect EGR valve heater hose.
- Remove bolts and thermostat housing.
- To install, tighten to 10 Nm (89 inch. lbs.).
- To install, reverse removal procedure.
- Clean and inspect gasket, install a new gasket if necessary.
Thermostat replacement 4.0L engine
Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing R&R
- Drain cooling system.
- Remove Air Cleaner (ACL) outlet tube.
- Disconnect upper radiator hose, see diagram above.
- Remove coolant bypass hose.
- Disconnect Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor electrical connector.
- Remove three bolts and thermostat housing.
- Inspect O-ring seal. Install a new O-ring seal if necessary.
- To install, tighten to 11 Nm (97 inch. lbs.).
- To install, reverse removal procedure.