Hello. I'm looking for advice from someone who has replaced the plastic thermostat housing (coolant flange?) on this model. Are there any tricks that I should know? For example, the flange attaches to a plastic pipe behind the engine head, that runs from the water pump. The joint is only secured by a flimsy looking plastic U shaped bracket, and apparently only sealed by an o-ring. There seems to be no flexibility in the pipe, so pushing the pipe tightly into the flange seems not an option.  The o-ring on the pipe may be a bit compressed with time, and has a tiny damaged spot. I have had no luck finding a replacement for this O-ring, so unless I can safely & permanently fix this by adding something like  Permatex silicone, Indian Head or perhaps even teflon tape, I won't be able to use the car for quite a while... :-( Please advise..

 

Also, when attaching the housing/flange to the engine head, should I use any sealant in addition to the rubber gasket that comes with it? There seems to be a very slight imperfection in the aluminium surface around the coolant cavity.

 

Thanks in advance!

 

2002 Fabia Sedan

1.4l AUB

I think the o-ring you're after is part number 032121666; (36.5 x 3.5mm) item no. 12 on this page:

http://www.partscats.info/skoda/en/?i=cat_vag_models&brand=sk&number=42&set=45&ein=2002&f=225&hauptgr=1234567890&hg=1&grf=012125253&bf=12125&hgug=121&ug=21&parent_id=44072

 

 

If you do use any sealant to help compensate for erosion of aluminium from the head, use a minimal amount, because any excess on the inside will tend to break away over time and block up things like your cabin heater.

I did this during my service as mine broke and seized open so always had a cold engine, just disconnect all the hoses and bolt the new one to the engine you shouldn't need any extra sealant