need to remove thermostate to flush out

[gvwalker84]

328is 96 automatic ,ok im trying to find somethg that explains how i get the thromstat out so i can flush the system because my car seems to be overheating... and i may have blew a head gasket, i hope not but i just want to know how to get the thermostat housing apart and remove it so i can flush and make sure i have no air or anythg..thanks guy

[Kapoosta]

DIY thermostat replacement guide:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/bmw/techarticles/E36-Thermostat/E36-Thermostat.htm

[Albertan]

Drain the water from the rad and from the block. (Right side right by the O2 sensor 19mm open end wrench. Be prepared to get WET.) Probably have to remove the fan and shroud. Unhook the hose and there are 4 bolts. Three are 10mm and one is 13mm. There is a lifting bracket on the 13mm that will have to be moved. Lightly tap on the housing. (If it is a plastic housing, hit it with a ball peen hammer, then when it breaks replace it with an aluminum version)
While you are there change the water pump as well.

[lex0628]

+1

[QuickSilver2]

Drain the water from the rad and from the block. (Right side right by the O2 sensor 19mm open end wrench. Be prepared to get WET.) Probably have to remove the fan and shroud. Unhook the hose and there are 4 bolts. Three are 10mm and one is 13mm. There is a lifting bracket on the 13mm that will have to be moved. Lightly tap on the housing. (If it is a plastic housing, hit it with a ball peen hammer, then when it breaks replace it with an aluminum version)
While you are there change the water pump as well.

Albertan, what is the process to remove the fan? The spanner size of the main bolt will be nice.

Thanks for a detailed response above, you're a great forumer.

[jmo69]

32MM or 1 1/4" wrench for the fan, turn it clockwise BTW it's a reverse thread. A fan tool from AutoZone helps.

[rtd328]

The fan removal is annoying, and if you plan to to DIY work, do yourself a favor and spend the $30 on the pulley holding tool. You'll remove that fan several times while you own the car.

[QuickSilver2]

Thanks Gentlemen. I am hoping that I don't need to remove the radiator to remove the fan?

[rtd328]

Thanks Gentlemen. I am hoping that I don't need to remove the radiator to remove the fan?

Nope, the radiator is not in the way. You might need to remove the fan shroud, however. I have done it without removing the shroud, and I think you can pull the fan out if you remove the alternator cooling duct.

[RadarLow]

beer, lots, its hot, most people work on them during the day

[Albertan]

beer, lots, its hot, most people work on them during the day
Oh good it is hot in Las Vegas. I'll be there in August, I like the heat, never get any here. Last year it was 116F when we got there, loved it. I always drive my "V". (Cadillac) I'm doing front struts today on the 328IS and I don't need the garage heater on, finally.
OP, I find taking the fan off works best if you leave the belt on and put the wrench on the nut and smack it with a hammer. Don't have to hit it too hard, but may have to hit it often. Do not forget, it is right hand thread as others have said. (clockwise)