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Sat Nov 22, 2025 6:37 am

I’m trying to install a thermostat assembly on my 36hp motor. The previous owner removed it and tossed most of the parts, so I’ve had to put it all together using info from this forum. I thought I had everything I need, but as I was mocking it all up last night, it seems something is not right. Hoping you all can help me identify the issue.

Here’s what I have and what it looked like when I set it up.

Notice the gap between the rod and the connecting arm that it needs to attach to. (I know the spring is missing. I have it, I was just trying to get a feel for how the rod passes through and attaches to the connecting arm.)

I’m no longer confident that I have the correct parts. Anyone know what I’’m missing, and if I’m not missing anything, what I’m doing wrong in the set up?

Sat Nov 22, 2025 8:07 am

Here you see the thermostat assembly.

Regards.

Sat Nov 22, 2025 8:15 am

Right. I’ve seen those images. I do have the large piece that fits into the fan shroud as well. I forgot to include it in the picture. I also have the misc nuts and bolts.

The problem is this gap:

Sat Nov 22, 2025 8:51 am

great post! I can't wait to see the final answer to your question. :D

Sat Nov 22, 2025 9:03 am

I see, you need to remove the second rear bolt at the top of the engine. It's the one on the right, under the oil cooler in your photo, and that's where the rod needs to be mounted.

Regards.

Sat Nov 22, 2025 9:07 am

RCJH77 wrote: Right. I’ve seen those images. I do have the large piece that fits into the fan shroud as well. I forgot to include it in the picture. I also have the misc nuts and bolts.

The problem is this gap:

You have the cross bar mounted in the incorrect location in the above pic.

Sat Nov 22, 2025 9:15 am

That is exactly what I was missing! Thanks, guys!

Sat Nov 22, 2025 3:03 pm

That other hole you were using was only for hanging the engine from the overhead conveyor while on the assembly line.

Sat Nov 22, 2025 6:18 pm

Eric&Barb wrote: That other hole you were using was only for hanging the engine from the overhead conveyor while on the assembly line.

I was wondering what it was for! Good to know.

Sat Nov 22, 2025 7:30 pm

RCJH77 wrote: Eric&Barb wrote: That other hole you were using was only for hanging the engine from the overhead conveyor while on the assembly line.

I was wondering what it was for! Good to know.

Middle image shows the upper part of the hanger. Have yet to find an image showing up front of the fan shroud part of it.

Sun Nov 23, 2025 12:10 am

That is an easy mistake to make. You might consider straightening the thermostat rod that passes through the head. In the shape it’s in it likely will bind against the fins of the head.

Sun Nov 23, 2025 5:58 am

I love this forum, so much knowledge! :D