RIDEX Engine Coolant Thermostat – 88°C • 316T0356

RIDEX 316T0356 Engine Coolant Thermostat – 88°C

Replacement RIDEX engine-coolant thermostat for Mazda MX-5 Mk1/NA, Mk2/NB and Mk2.5/NB-FL 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol models listed in the compatibility table.

The thermostat regulates coolant flow between the engine and radiator. When the engine is cold, it restricts circulation through the radiator to help the engine reach its normal operating temperature. As the coolant reaches approximately 88°C, the thermostat opens and permits increased flow through the radiator.

A thermostat that is stuck open can cause slow engine warm-up, weak cabin heating and reduced fuel efficiency. A thermostat that remains closed or opens incompletely can cause overheating, excessive cooling-system pressure and possible engine damage.

This product is the thermostat insert and does not include the surrounding thermostat housing. One thermostat is required per vehicle and one thermostat is supplied.

• Part type: Engine-coolant thermostat
• Primary use: Regulates coolant circulation between the engine and radiator
• Opening temperature: 88°C
• Diameter: 52 mm
• Height: 25 mm
• Housing type: Without housing
• Seal: Catalogue indicates sealing ring supplied
• Approximate net weight: 89 g
• EAN: 4065739029322
• Quantity required per vehicle: 1
• Quantity supplied: 1 thermostat
• Brand: RIDEX
• Part No.: 316T0356
• Designed as an aftermarket replacement for the applications listed in the compatibility table

Fitment advice: This thermostat is used across numerous Mazda and other Asian vehicle applications. For the Mazda MX-5, it is suitable for the listed Mk1/NA, Mk2/NB and Mk2.5/NB-FL 1.6 and 1.8-litre engines. Match the original thermostat diameter, opening temperature and OE reference where the engine or cooling system has previously been replaced or modified.

Other items to consider: When replacing the thermostat, consider purchasing fresh coolant, a thermostat-housing gasket or O-ring, replacement hose clips, deteriorated coolant hoses, a radiator cap and any corroded thermostat-housing fixings.

Useful tools / consumables: Drain container, socket and spanner set, hose-clamp pliers, gasket scraper, torque wrench, cooling-system funnel, fresh coolant and suitable eye and hand protection.

Difficulty guide: DIY Difficulty: Moderate. Replacement requires partial draining of the cooling system, removal of the thermostat housing and correct bleeding of the system after refilling.

Why RIDEX? RIDEX components provide a cost-effective aftermarket repair option manufactured to application-specific dimensions. This thermostat is designed to restore controlled engine warm-up and coolant circulation when installed in a correctly functioning cooling system.

What’s in the box: One RIDEX 88°C engine-coolant thermostat. The surrounding thermostat housing, coolant and additional housing gaskets or fixings are not included unless physically present in the supplied package.

Installation notes: Allow the engine to cool fully before opening the cooling system. Drain sufficient coolant to lower the level beneath the thermostat housing. Remove the housing carefully and note the orientation of the original thermostat, including the position of any bleed or jiggle valve. Clean the sealing faces without damaging the aluminium housing. Install the replacement thermostat in the correct orientation with the appropriate seal. Refit the housing and tighten its fixings evenly to the applicable specification. Refill with the correct coolant mixture, bleed trapped air from the system and check carefully for leaks. Confirm that the engine reaches normal operating temperature and that the radiator warms as the thermostat opens.