Bench test thermostat?
 

How can I bench test the oil thermostat? I bought a complete set of oil lines including a thermostat and radiator type cooler a few years ago. The car has been off the road :(

Anyways I am finally getting around to getting the car back together and want to test the thermostat BEFORE I take the time to install it into the car.

I can't really see anything if I look inside, so I don't know if it is open or closed right now.

Ideas?

Thanks

Shawn

Is it safe to say that if it is cold fluid should not go through, and if I heat it then it should open and fluid should go through?

Is it safe to boil it in water? as long as I make sure it is completely dry afterwards?

Thermostat test......
 

Shawn,

Are you refering to the auxiliary thermostat? A very simple test to do is immersed the auxiliary thermostat in water or oil and heat the bath. The valve will start to open at 180°F+ and will gradually continue to increase the opening as the temp. builds up. At 212°F (boiling point of water), the aperture should be wide open already. Then cool down the water/oil bath and observed the closing of the valve.

Tony