Thermostat housing 1971 500

cadelec · October 15, 2018, 04:24:17 AM

i need to replace my thermostat housing on my 1971 eldo 500 is this available. is there a generic part that i can use. also i am in australia so i am need to know if this is a specific part or i can adapt something

TJ Hopland · October 15, 2018, 08:48:13 AM

The Eldo wasn't unique so any 472-500-425 and maybe 368 should work.

I believe the stat diameter and bolt spacing was pretty standard for classic American engines so its mostly the hose diameter and angle.

69Deville · October 15, 2018, 10:47:42 AM

Here is a pic from the Parts Book.

Scot Minesinger · October 15, 2018, 12:56:30 PM

good used are readily available, and should not hurt too bad on shipping - how is it that this cast iron piece needs to be replaced anyway?

The Tassie Devil(le) · October 15, 2018, 06:43:47 PM

It is a tin piece, so probably rusted out.

Bruce.

The Tassie Devil(le) · October 15, 2018, 07:13:31 PM

Trevor,

I should have one down here if you can't locate one closer. I will dig it out and see what condition it is in.

Bruce.

Scot Minesinger · October 16, 2018, 09:19:26 AM

The 429 engines use an aluminum thermostat housing to connect the upper radiator hose to and those suffer galvanic corrosion. My 1970 thermostat housing (472 RWD) is cast iron. Guess in 71 they went to a different metal.

The Tassie Devil(le) · October 16, 2018, 07:03:12 PM

I think that the trouble with a cast iron part in such a small configuration of the design would snap off the ears when constantly being tightened.

Steel will just bend a bit. Plus, cheaper to make.

Bruce.

cadillacmike68 · October 17, 2018, 04:53:29 PM

The original cast iron ones from 1968-70 can get crusty if neglected. Mine is showing its age, but at least its not leaking yet.

cadillacmike68 · October 17, 2018, 07:54:06 PM

I also noticed that there is an ACDELCO replacement part that is good for several years, but itis stamped steel (painted black) and I'm not sure how long one of those would last. And now I can't find it. You'll probably have to peruse fleabay for a decent used one.

cadelec · October 21, 2018, 01:04:59 AM

so i assume these are the same as a 425 therfore it would be safe to assume this will fit ebay auction number 292662919971 https://www.ebay.com/itm/Engine-Coolant-Thermostat-Housing-Dorman-fits-77-79-Cadillac-DeVille-7-0L-V8/292662919971?epid=1060828678&hash=item442411c323:g:xdMAAOSw1Dtbm43n:rk:5:pf:0#vi-ilComp

cadillacmike68 · October 23, 2018, 12:06:03 AM

^^ Do you see how the fitting is necked down? This might not be good for the 500s & 472s.

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Thermostat housing 1971 500