RAM 1500 Truck 2WD V8-5.7L VIN 2 (2006)
Thermostat: Description and Operation
Operation
OPERATION
3.7L/4.7L/5.7L ENGINE
The wax pellet is located in a sealed container at the spring end of the thermostat. When heated, the pellet expands, overcoming closing spring tension
and water pump pressure to force the valve to open.
8.3L ENGINE
The thermostat's primary purpose is to maintain engine temperature in a range that will provide satisfactory engine performance and emission levels
under all expected driving conditions.
The thermostat is unique because the center does not open and close like a conventional thermostat; it works like a sliding sleeve. The outside sleeve
moves, directing coolant flow through the engine block or through the bypass passages back to the water pump. During warm-up below 85°C (185°F),
the thermostat is seated in the retracted position. This will allow the coolant to flow into the bypass passage, and back to the water pump. At 85°C
(185°F) the thermostat begins to open, allowing coolant to flow through both the bypass and the radiator. At 97°C (207°F) the thermostat will fully
open, blocking the path to the bypass, allowing all coolant to flow through the radiator.
