Thermostat bleeder

[gertiebob]

This has been driving me crazy even if it has not been an issue. I have searched and cannot find an answer. I know, I know, I know, this will be another stupid simpleton question.

I just changed my thermostat. System is fine, I think. However I do have these questions. Assume that the system is, in fact, totally air free. Do you leave the thermostat bleeder open all the time? Do you close it? Is righty tighty closing it or opening it? One would assume closing but . . .

Thanks!

[SyncroHead]

Assuming you went through the rather convoluted sequence to make sure all air is bleed out through the bleeder vent at the radiator....

Yes, this must be closed, otherwise as soon as the air is depleted it will provide a very hot stream of coolant squirting out in rather brisk fashion.

Righty-tighty.

Jim
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[Wildthings]

I am not sure that it matters much as you find them turned either way. I guess I have always assumed that you turned the clockwise to close them, I have never thought to verify this when I had the lid to the thermostat housing off and could blow through it.

[gertiebob]

Thanks Jim.

The bleeder is hosed into the loop around the top of engine compartment so it certainly does not squirt coolant into the air! I believe the shop I used (years ago) left it open, is why I ask. Seems to me generally better to leave closed but have not seen it clearly referenced.

However, it is at a high point and the other various un-valved bleeders feed into this loop so it seems intuitive that it really does not matter.

I am closing it though. Must be a reason to have a valve in the first place.

Cheers.