Upper Radiator Hose and Thermostat, Headed For Trash
When we left for grocery shopping this morning, A said, "let's take your car. Mine won't warm up any more." That's a sure sign some repair work is needed. Our favorite place to buy groceries is across town, and as we are shopping it occurs to me that the auto parts stores are also over here. So on the way home, I suggest, "let's stop and buy a thermostat." We stopped at Knechts, behind Walgren's on South Lancaster. I' m happy to give them a plug because they were very helpful. The thermostat on autos the vintage of ours anyway, is in the block right under the upper radiator hose connection. On our trustworthy 89 Riviera, it is held in place by only one bolt, 11mm, in the most challenging location. I try a few wrench combinations, but there is always something in the way. In fact, I announce that I'm giving this one up. However, the alternative is the repair shop. That means they will have the car (and we won't) for a couple of days. And I'm thinking, maybe $200.00 or more going on the credit card. Not good.
This renews my zeal. I manage to get the upper radiator hose off! And would you believe, I find a way to reach and remove the 11mm bolt. Things are going swimmingly. Back together, and the engine running by 3:30 pm! Ah, but I see lots of steam and discover a leak. The proper fix is a new radiator hose. I try a few parts houses closer to home including the dealer. No luck for today. Ah, well, I give Knechts a call.
Not only do they have the part, they are $10 under the others I've called. So back across town, and I have the parts. Home by five, finished by 5:30! And we have heat!
A reminded me of a trip to Yellowstone, when we needed a new thermostat on a Friday afternoon. The friendly St Anthony Idaho a repair shop kept our car for hours, then sent us on our way. We learned later that he "forgot" to put in the thermostat he charged us for. And in case you are interested, the heating/cooling system won't work right without one. Ah, well...
This renews my zeal. I manage to get the upper radiator hose off! And would you believe, I find a way to reach and remove the 11mm bolt. Things are going swimmingly. Back together, and the engine running by 3:30 pm! Ah, but I see lots of steam and discover a leak. The proper fix is a new radiator hose. I try a few parts houses closer to home including the dealer. No luck for today. Ah, well, I give Knechts a call.
Not only do they have the part, they are $10 under the others I've called. So back across town, and I have the parts. Home by five, finished by 5:30! And we have heat!
A reminded me of a trip to Yellowstone, when we needed a new thermostat on a Friday afternoon. The friendly St Anthony Idaho a repair shop kept our car for hours, then sent us on our way. We learned later that he "forgot" to put in the thermostat he charged us for. And in case you are interested, the heating/cooling system won't work right without one. Ah, well...
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