Aftermarket struggles with Prince engine thermostats – here’s what you need to know

First Line clears up confusion and explains the change in new thermostat components

Aftermarket struggles with Prince engine thermostats – here’s what you need to know
First Line's thermostats.

Due to an increase in overheating issues on popular Citroën, Peugeot and Mini applications, the OE manufacturers have made several changes to the design and specification of the original thermostat to improve its capabilities.

However, according to First Line, these changes have caused confusion within the automotive aftermarket.

This confusion around this new specification of thermostat may lead to unnecessary returns, and therefore time for workshops, so it is vital for technicians to recognise this new thermostat and understand the difference in order to install it.

Four-pin connector

A First Line spokesperson said: “Originally, this component was a wax thermostat and had a temperature sensor that was a four-pin connector joining it to the wiring loom.

“This version however was problematic, as the temperature sensor often malfunctioned, leading to the engine warning light coming on, implying the car was overheating, when in fact the engine was still running cool.

“Another problem was that the bleed pipe often got broken off accidentally during routine inspection and repairs.

Two-pin plugs

“Now, the four-pin plug has been replaced by two two-pin plugs, one being located at the bottom of the unit and the other remaining at the top.

“Unfortunately, this alone didn’t solve the OE problems, therefore further specification enhancements were made.

“The lower sensor was moved from the side to the rear of the thermostat housing, the housing’s structural weak points were also reinforced, finally, the wax thermostat has been replaced with an electronically controlled thermostat.”

Wiring harness adapter

On some applications, when the latest electronically controlled thermostat replaces the original wax version, a new wiring harness adapter will be required to complete the installation.

On other applications this may be needed if the original loom does not reach to the new sensors.

To accommodate these changes, both these connector looms are available from First Line: FTS3091 and FTS3092.

Software check

The spokesperson added: “Finally, when replacing thermostats on these applications, it is important to run a software check to see if it needs to be re-programmed/flashed to ensure that it is operating the latest version.

“With so many changes made to the component, technicians may assume that they have received an incorrect thermostat, as it may look completely different to the one taken off the vehicle.”

First Line’s thermostat offering consists of more than 160 references and encompasses straight forward pressed thermostats, to the technically advanced computer controlled variable thermostats, as well as new electronically controlled thermostats, giving workshops a complete cooling solution.

For more information about First Line call 01869 248484 or follow the ‘more details’ link.

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