1 Answer

Follow the upper radiator hose from the radiator to the engine and there is a housing that houses the thermostat. Take it off and when you reinstall the thermostsat, make sure the spring goes toward the engine.
The thermostat is located on the motor block under the three bolt flang that the top rediator hose connects to. Remove the three 10MM bolts and the thermostat can be removed for replacement.
How to Change an Explorer Thermostat

1. Remove the air cleaner air duct from the throttle body and air cleaner.
2. Follow the upper radiator hose to the engine to locate the thermostat housing. The housing is located at the front of the intake manifold.
3. Loosen the hose clamp, then detach the hose from the fitting. This can be difficult. If it's stuck, grasp with a pair of adjustable pliers and twist to break the seal. Then pull it off.
4. Remove the bolts and detach the housing cover. Be prepared some coolant may leak out as the gasket seal is broken. Remove the thermostat.
5. Install the new o-ring onto the thermostat (no gasket is needed) and install the thermostat into the intake manifold with the spring side pointing toward the engine.
6. Make sure the air release valve is in the up 12 o'clock position. Install housing cover and bolts. Reattach the hose fitting and tighten the hose clamp. Fill the cooling system with a 50/50 mix of coolant and water, and burp the system.