U could "test" things by just temporarily leaving the stat out and going for a test drive. While the stat(s) is/are out, test 'em in a pan of water on top of the stove using a cooking thermometer. Don't throw the stat's in boiling water. T-stat's open/close very slowly and are open in a infinite number of positions between full open and closed. Pic shows a 180F stat at closed and full open positions.

 

Yeah, I've put them in before ... just not on this closed system or engine.
And strangely the two top shelve thermostats I have already installed didn't have the "jiggle valve."

I'm guessing that's where this drill 2 holes concept comes into play.

I'm at a loss here. After rereading djb383's post earlier. . . I thought to myself.... "Why the heck do I not have one of those IR thermometers? That doesn't sound like me." So after some comparison, I'll have one at my door in a few days. Gonna use thermometer and recompare old coolant sender. In the mean time i'm still not too sure about the waterpump

 

I might have to. Id prefer not to have to pop that housing off more than I have to(especially since you have to loosen the belt to get to that pesky bottom bolt,) but I guess I need to get past the inevitable and just do It.

Thanks for the advice guys I'm gonna get that going this weekend when I get some time off. If I remember Ill post results.

And thanks djb383 for the Ir thermometer idea. We are still getting snow up here in April, so that's gonna help find cold spots I need to insulate around the house as well.

 

IR point-n-shoot temp gun is handy as a pocket on a shirt. Our $25 unit from Harbor Freight gives virtually the same readings as our name brand Raytek unit. Don't guess on any of the cooling system components.....really hot weather is just around the corner.....$250 total in parts will "git 'er done".

 

I really hate coming across stories from 2013 that have my EXACT problem, but the ending doesn't get told. Please OP if you're still around and fixed that problem, let us (ME) know.

 

At least you recognize this thread is OLD!! However, XJStock hasn't posted since 2013 so it's unlikely you'll hear back.

I suggest instead of resurrecting threads long gone, you start a new one listing your symptoms. Don't forget to list the year and engine. If you think other threads may be of help, just link them in yours.

 

Oh hell, I'll bite.
Use the Mopar thermostat 83501426 stat.
Do you have the original expansion bottle on your Jeep?
Original radiator?