I read on here about using an OEM thermostat so I bought one and when I went to put it in the car had an aftermarket one in already. My question is where should the little bleeder be positioned?

On the n/a EJ22's it doesn't really matter since the thermostat is positioned veritcally.

I read on here about using an OEM thermostat so I bought one and when I went to put it in the car had an aftermarket one in already. My question is where should the little bleeder be positioned?

 

Yeah, it doesn't matter where the small hole in the thermostat is. I recently replaced the water pump and t-stat on my 2.5 and at first was startled by the fact that I did not note its orientation when removing the old one. I later came to realize that it could not possibly matter, as it just needs to open and close properly. Stuck it in and all is well.

I replaced mine a whole ago, i was trying to figure out... and spoke to subaru mechanic he said it doesn't matter on EJ22 engine.

 

Not sure about other EJ series engines.

Cheers

AP

Thanks for the replies. I will throw it in. I really appreciate all the help.

Well, the spring bit does have to be on the top :-)

 

Can't go in wrong, nevermind what rotation the "bell" is at at.

I used a non OEM thermostat on my first subie before I found this site and it over heated. Fooled around with it and some used one's off my parts car and still it over heated. Ended drilling a small hole in it to get it to work. No problem ever since. Stumpy

When you refill with water/coolant and squeeze the upper hose for the "burping" you will probably hear that little valve in the thermostat making a "clicking" noise.