ogpuprison

I think I understand - you mean loosening all the fixings for the hose which joins to the thermostat housing? Then leave it on cos then you'll have something to pull on to get it out, The diagram I looked at suggests about 3 bolts which fix that fat hose to the other parts

Thanks fellas. I'm going to do it this weekend; looked at loads of info online and it's not too bad. Remove the coolant pipe and that should be a struggle, but the 2 bolts can be accessed. Oh yeah-remove the big bolt on the alternator which is in the way. Just hope I don't drop bits into some dark recess (highly likely). I thought the throttle body(?) would have to be shifted, but no. Many thanks all

MK1 -the more 'boxy' version, unless I'm mistaken

I will-cos I spent half of my day off removing the drivers' door as I have to fit a new window regulator too. If the thermostat is accessed underneath the alternator, that's too complicated for me to do parked in the street. Yeah everyone here only has positive things to say about a remap-but I'm not experienced enough to know if I've got any worn pipes, etc, which may pop if engine pressure is modified,,, ,, that's why I'm unsure as to whetehr it's a sensible idea or not. This car, i got it and it was fast and smooth for 2 weeks. then the thermostat f**ked up,, and performance has been weaker. Hopefully a new one will get things back to normal.

Got a Vrs 2 weeks back and so far, so good. 150 000 miles, all stock, very good condition overall. Needs a new thermostat and I'm getting the cambelt done next week. Should I get the cambelt garage to do the thermostat for me? It appears they'll be down that way and have to change the coolant anyways... ..and although I can handle it, it may be best to let the professionals do it. My main point is whether or not to get a remap done - one garage dissauded me somewhat,saying 'it isn't worth it, the Vrs is tuned as good as can be', ,etc,etc. Strange I always thought garages love taking your cash. I understand that an uprated engine is gonna put more pressure on (possibly worn) other components, but I'm not going for insane performance.. ..just a smoother overall ride with the power a secondary concern. Although its' fast by my standards, I'm sure it should be more responsive and 'even' in its' power output Should I forget the idea? Cos it seems sensible to me - £300 for a remap and engine clean/service sounds a deal