4 Wheel Drive/SUVs: thermostat, jeep grand cherokee, torque settings

Question
Hi Carl

I hope you can answer this. I have 93 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with a 4litre engine. I simply want to learn how to change the thermostat since it seems to go quite often. I have been trying to remove the housing but the belt seems to block the lower bolt I have to remove. Do I have to remove the belt? If so how do I do that? Or do I simply need a different tool.

Thanks

Dwayne

Answer
Dwayne,

I have a 2000 Grand Cherokee, and just changed the thermostat in it, and had no problem with anything in the way.  Yours may have a different belt configuration than mine.  If you do have to remove the belt, this is not real difficult.  What I would suggest, is that you purchase a repair manual for the Jeep, as it will give you specific instructions for removing, replacing, and adjusting the belt.

You can purchase a manufacturer's shop manual for it from a dealer.  They are quite expensive, normally costing, around $100.  A Chilton's or a Hayne's manual would be a better buy, as they can be purchased at most auto parts stores for $20.  They have a lot of information on basic trouble shooting, and repairs, including a list of special tools that may be needed for a specific job, nut sizes along with torque settings.  These manuals are designed for a year or range of years for specific vehicles, and are invaluable if you are planning on doing any repairs, or maintenance yourself.

Carl