Carpokes Porsche Forum

Hi all,

Installed a new Geba water pump on my 83 944 along with a new Mahle/Behr thermostat. I have a question about the gaskets and fitting.

I’m aware of the spacing difference for the snap ring however the gasket that came with the thermostat (the grooved one that fits around the lip of the thermostat) was an absolute bugger to get fitted into the water pump outlet (almost seems to be 1 mm too large in diameter). I did work it into place because I am a) stubborn and b) too lazy to go pick up another thermostat. However once fitted the snap ring goes into place and it doesn’t appear as though there’s any room to fit a spacer ring (that the thermostat didn’t come with anyways).

I read somewhere that the Mahle/Behr thermostats come with either a thicker or thinner seal but it’s kind of hit or miss. Before I button this thing back up for good, has anyone else had this issue in fitting a new thermostat?

Danke
Keith

Yep, that ring is a real PITA. I learned a long time ago that fighting the tension at the same time you are trying to locate the ring in the groove and keep the thermostat from falling out is a juggling act. I bought this to help:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000RH3882

It keeps the grip ring compressed while trying to install it. I also install the thermostat while the waterpump is not installed, since there is little room to maneuver. Of course, if the pump is already mounted, you don't have much of a choice.

As to spacer rings, etc. my own experience is that you do the best you can to keep the thermostat from rattling in the pump, it's not rocket surgery.