Michael Gain
Full Access Member
I just had a new fan delivered the other day. Thinking about tackling it soon, but just needed to source the tools.
The 4.9L wrench worked great, but I couldn't get enough leverage to remove the nut because the included pulley holder kept slipping. Definitely rent the universal fan pulley holder. Oh, and remove the accessory belt. I noticed the pulley move a little and just thought that it was slipping on the belt. Nope.. The crank pulley moved as well.
I used the free rental tool from O’Reilly’s auto. Worked okay.
I also replaced my thermostat and could not get that adapter off the bottom for anything. Ended up having to buy the lower hose part with the new adapter. Even after I had the new part, I still tried to get that old T-stat adapter off just out of frustration - could not get it. It was completely glued on.
Once removed, I found that it was just heat and coolant holding it so tight--kind of like breaking loose radiator hoses. I had to work around the edge with a screw driver. Then, I had to use two pry bars at opposite ends of the adapter collar to pry it off. I lubricated the rubber gasket inside with clean antifreeze and it went right on the new thermostat.
I will say that the service manual didn't even address it. It just showed to remove the spring clip and pull the thermostat out of the bottom hose. Hahaha thanks Topix.
On a side note, I've been maintaining, repairing, and modifying cars for over 20 years and I have never owned a hose clamp wrench. I picked one up when the channel locks weren't working. It made a world of difference! You know, "right tool for the right job" and all of that..