I was just getting ready to dig in and went to look at my books and relized I loaned them to a friend(out of town). So figured I would check with you guys.

Thanks

 

I would not think so, but if you wanted to 20 - 25 would be plenty, or just snug will do. I am getting ready to do the same thing.

 

Theoretically, yes.
Actually, no.

Even the valve covers have a tq spec, 7 ft lbs I beleive.
I don't know what the water outlet spec is, but just a little more than snug is good.

 

My manual states 20lbs. However, I felt one of mine start to strip at about 13lbs, so it stayed there. I guess 35 years of new thermostats weakened the rusty threads. Luckily there were no leaks with one bolt at 20 and one at 13. I do know that this t-stat WILL be in there a long time!
Conclusion - I think 15 should be fine...

 

Every single nut and bolt on a car has torque specs, most are unnecessary.

 

Gorilla tight!

 

Long ago I used to stick to the method of "tighten it until it starts to strip, then back off 1/8 of a turn."

Later, I realized I was so wrong...

I then put down a solid 10 bucks and got this universal tool - never stripped another bolt!

 

that's a good one.