Coupe E36

Hey, new here on the board. my mom just got a 97 E420 (damn these baby have torque) and already i am loving the power and car itself. well, the water temp. gauge moves around from 80C and up to around 100C and back down, when in traffic.. so i am assuming its a bad thermostat, because this was one of the problems i had with my 325is and switched thermostat, and fixed the problem. Well i went to autozone looking for a repair manual, but couldnt find anything. So I came here, since this would be the best place to get my answers. I was just wondering where is the thermostat located ? and wat tools would i need, and would flushing the coolant be necessary ? better yet anyone have any DIY link on this ? thanks again..

Jer

I believe the thermostat is located under the plastic cover on the engine. The t'stat cover is usually held on with 3 bolts. Be ready to catch coolant which will surely pee out. After replacing the t'stat and securing the cover, run the engine and open the bleed screw (on top of the cover) to purge air from the cooling system.