Alfa Romeo TS, JTS, JTD & V6 - Change a thermostat on a twinspark

This is by no means the definitive guide to changing a thermostat but is how I did it (with inspiration from Andymac). Its meant as a rough guide and I take no responsibility for you damaging your own car whilst using this info.

You will need a new thermostat, thermostat gasket (mine came with the stat), 1x 29-41mm hose clip, 1x 10-13mm hose clip and 2x 13-19mm hose clips as well as an assortment of tools.

1. Open bonnet and remove air intake pipe that goes from the airbox to the throttle with 7mm hex socket.


CAUTION: do not turn the ignition on with the temp sender disconnected.

2.Remove big hose at the front of the thermostat (lots of coolant will come out), the small hose at the top, the hidden hose underneath at the front and disconnect the temp sender(the bit with the wires at the top). Note there is still one hose connected at the back. Unless you have the special pliers that takes the clips off you may have to cut them.


3.Using a 13mm socket remove the two bolts that hold the thermostat onto the side of the engine. Prise the thermostat away from the engine with you hands and disconnect the last hose on the back.


4. Take time to clean the mating surface of the engine being careful not to scratch it or get debris into the engine. Wash the drained coolant out of the engine bay as well.


5.Using an appropriate spanner, transfer the temp sender to the new thermostat giving it a good clean with solvent as well. You can buy new ones for about £15 but I am too mean.
For added support you can remove the temp sender wile the thermostat is still attached to the engine.


6.Refit in reverse order using the two 13-19mm clips on the lower hoses, one 10-13mm clip on the top hose and the big 29-41mm clip on the front hose.


7.Refill the coolant (50% mix) upto the max line and squeeze several times on some of the big hoses to bleed slightly. Then refil back to max and replace cap.

8. Re-install air intake pipework.

9. Start the engine and look closely for any leaks. Let the engine run up to normal temp while keeping an eye on the coolant level and for leaks.

10. let cool down for a couple of hours and refill the coolant to max, as the system will have bled itself.

11. The next few times you use the car check the coolant level before you start and top up if neccesary. Make sure to check the coolant level with the cap removed.

12. Enjoy