Thermostat Housing woes

[freerider]

Late last year I had my thermostat housing gasket replaced because it was leaking, now the housing seems to have developed a hairline crack.

Anyone done a DIY on this? It doesnt look too difficult to do, just getting in there might be a problem without moving the radiator.

 

[Shady_45]

What vehicle are we talking about ?

 

[freerider]

sorry, I should have specified. Its on my 2003 E46 320i.

 

[DT-///M]

:Ive done this on a e36. Relatively easy. The problem on them was that some of them came out with the plastic housing and the norm would be to replace it with the metal one. You can get the part at any motor spares to save a few bucks but best bet would be the original from agents. If you google it im sure you'l find a stp by step guide. Hope this helps.:thumbsup:

 

[freerider]

Part from BMW is R1100 and some change, but unfortunately you cant just buy the housing. it comes with a new thermostat as well. I suppose this is fine as my thermostat is throwing a code at the moment anyway

 

[SirSparky]

go to www.understeer.com
theve got for the E36,not sure about E46 though

 

[Craig]

Guys, I know this is a very old thread and my question has probably been answered before. I do not know how to start a new topic (stupid I know) but hopefully someone can help me with my question. I have a E46 320 (M54). What is the purpose of the sensor on the thermostat housing ? Mine is leaking and it seems like the sensor has corroded off. Want to know what the issues (if any) will be if this sensor is not working.

 

[Craig]

What I have been able to find out so far is that the thermostat on these engines are electronicly controlled (as opposed to mechanicly). Can someone please tell me if I can drive the car without this sensor working ? So far the temp has been OK.

 

[freerider]

Common issue, its a thermostat heater element that you are talking about, not a sensor. Best you replace the thermostat housing as that one will just keep leaking now.

 

[Craig]

@freerider,
Thanks for the reply. Besides the leak, what other problems can I expect? I am confused now. Could you please explain what the heater element does ?

 

[SP33DYV]

@freerider,
Thanks for the reply. Besides the leak, what other problems can I expect? I am confused now. Could you please explain what the heater element does ?

@Craig
The heater element opens the thermostat quicker if you drive the car a little harder before the engine is up to temperature. I have been driving mine with a faulty element for quite some time before replacing it, and have had no issues, as long as it's not leaking. Just take care[/align] when the engine is cold.

 

[Craig]

@SP33DYV,
Thanks a lot for the reply. Have a better understanding now. I think we all know that these engines are very prone to overheating etc !