SLP 160* Thermostat Doesn't Fit??? (02' F-Body LS1)

**RaceDriver** · 09-04-2006, 02:34 PM

I ordered the SLP 160* thermostat from WS6Store.com and went to install it today, only to find that it doesn't fit.

Attached is the photo of the thermostat on WS6 Store. The one they sent me looks exactly like this. The little prong on either side, circled in red in the photo, is hitting the side of the housing where the thermostat slides in. Basically like the diameter of the hole is too small for the thermostat. The stock thermostat I removed also doesn't have that extra mounting hole/bracket in the rear, only one on each side. Also, the SLP thermostat has "Motocraft Germany" stamped on it. Another difference is that assuming it did fit, I think the hose fitting points in a different direction (not opposite, just maybe 60-90* off or so).

Has anyone else had this problem??? The engine is an LS1 from a 2002 Trans Am (but it's in an Rx7).

I've been trying to call WS6Store but I guess they're not open today. I'm kinda pissed cause I wanted to get this done today.

So either..
1. WS6 Store sent me the wrong part (somehow seems unlikely)
2. My engine isn't really an 02' LS1... is there a difference in the thermostat for an LS6 or a different year LS1??? Also seems unlikely.
3. There is some trick to getting this thing in (which is why I am posting here)
4. I have a defective thermostat
5. My engine has some weirdo water pump
6. I am on crazy pills!

Thanks for any help!

**2001NBMZ28** · 09-04-2006, 02:56 PM

Sounds like the donor motor had the new style LS1 pump installed. Remember seeing posts on the hypertech tstat not fitting the replacements either.

**00 Z28** · 09-04-2006, 03:43 PM

I tried a Be Cool thermostat and it did not fit either. Same problem as you.

**RaceDriver** · 09-04-2006, 04:17 PM

What's the new style LS1 pump? Is there some other car that came with this style pump, so that I can get a replacement thermostat? Any idea where to get a thermostat for this pump otherwise?

I tried going to Advance Auto Parts, and their OEM replacement thermostat also looks exactly like the SLP thermostat, and also doesn't fit my pump. I also checked the OEM replacement for other years f-bodies and vette and they were all the same.

I'm pretty confused. Can anyone tell me what pump I have, where to get a replacement, and is this pump better than the original LS1 water pump? If not, maybe I'll just buy a new pump...

**RaceDriver** · 09-04-2006, 04:28 PM

Alright, I think I just figured it out. For some reason the donor motor has the 2004+ LSX water pump.

See this link: http://www.lingenfelter.com/lingenfe...statidpage.htm

That's the one I have on the right.

Anyway, thanks for the help.