Engine Coolant Thermostat Guide for the 1990-1998 Eagle Talon
Keep your Talon's 4G63 engine from overheating by choosing the right thermostat and avoiding common part failures.
- A stuck-closed thermostat is an emergency; pull over immediately to prevent engine damage.
- For reliability, choose an OEM thermostat or a premium aftermarket brand like Gates; avoid generic parts-store brands if possible.
- The stock 180°F thermostat is correct for most Talons; lower temperature thermostats are for heavily modified race applications.
- Always replace the thermostat gasket and burp the cooling system thoroughly after replacement to prevent leaks and overheating.
Signs of a Failing Thermostat
A bad thermostat can fail in two ways: stuck open or stuck closed. Each has distinct symptoms. A new thermostat can also be faulty right out of the box, so it's important to recognize these signs.
Stuck Closed: The Engine Killer
This is the most dangerous failure. A thermostat stuck closed prevents coolant from reaching the radiator. Heat builds up rapidly in the engine, leading to rapid overheating. You will see the temperature gauge spike into the red, and you may see steam from under the hood. If this happens, pull over immediately and shut off the engine to prevent catastrophic damage like a blown head gasket.
Stuck Open: The Slow Burn
If the thermostat is stuck open, coolant constantly flows to the radiator. This prevents the engine from reaching its proper operating temperature, especially in cooler weather or during highway driving. Symptoms include a temperature gauge that never reaches the middle of the range, poor heater performance, and decreased fuel economy. Over time, this can cause carbon buildup and accelerate engine wear.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Thermostat
For many years, Eagle Talon and DSM owners preferred using the original OEM thermostat from the Mitsubishi dealer because it had a larger valve for better flow compared to many aftermarket options. However, as these cars have aged, some OEM parts are becoming harder to find. The community has identified several quality aftermarket alternatives. The stock thermostat for a 2G Talon (95-98) is rated to start opening at 180°F and be fully open by 203°F. Choosing the correct temperature is crucial for engine management and emissions.
Brand Quality Tiers for Your Talon
- Premium Aftermarket (OEM-Quality & Performance): Brands like Gates and Beck Arnley are well-regarded in the DSM community. Gates, in particular, is often praised for making quality parts that meet or exceed OEM specs. For modified or high-performance Talons, Mishimoto offers racing thermostats that open at a lower temperature to increase cooling efficiency, though this may not be ideal for a daily driven car in a cold climate.
- Standard Replacement: Brands like Facet and some offerings from Motorad can be a decent choice for a stock daily driver if you're on a budget. However, quality can be inconsistent. Many owners have used standard parts store thermostats without issue, but others have experienced premature failures. Always inspect a new thermostat before installation. 🎬 See how to test a thermostat before you install it.
- On OEM vs. Aftermarket: The consensus among Talon owners is to use an OEM thermostat if you can find one, or a high-quality aftermarket part from a trusted brand like Gates. Avoid generic, unbranded "fail-safe" thermostats, as they can sometimes lock open prematurely, causing the engine to run too cool.
Typical Replacement Costs
| Part Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Thermostat | $9.85 - $68.95 |
| New OEM Thermostat | $45 - $60 |
| Shop Labor | $80 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature thermostat should I use?
For a stock or lightly modified Eagle Talon, stick with the OEM temperature rating, which is typically 180°F or 190°F depending on the year. Using a lower temperature thermostat on a stock car can prevent the engine from entering its optimal operating state, affecting performance and emissions. Lower temp thermostats are best reserved for highly modified cars with upgraded cooling systems.
My car is still overheating after I changed the thermostat! What's wrong?
There are several possibilities. First, the new thermostat could be faulty from the factory. Second, and most common, is an air pocket trapped in the cooling system. You must properly "burp" the system to remove all air after a coolant service. 🎬 Learn the best ways to bleed air from your cooling system. Other causes could be a clogged radiator, failing water pump, or bad radiator fans.
Where is the thermostat located on a 1990-1998 Eagle Talon?
The thermostat is located inside the thermostat housing where the lower radiator hose connects to the engine block. On the 4G63 engine, this is on the driver's side of the engine. 🎬 Watch this step-by-step thermostat replacement for your Eagle Talon. You'll need to drain some coolant, remove two nuts, and pull the housing off to access it.
Did my new thermostat come with a gasket?
It depends on the brand. Some kits include the gasket or O-ring, but many do not. It is critical to check and buy a new gasket separately if it's not included. Re-using the old one will almost certainly cause a leak.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MD315301
Standard opening temperature: 180°F (82°C) for 2G models. Fully open around 203°F (95°C).
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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