I finally figured out where my coolant leak was coming from after I purchased a radiator pressure tester from Harbor Freight.

it was the dreaded and quite common thermostat housing that had cracked and was spraying a fine mist of coolant on top of the engine.

So I read the threads, watched the video, and ordered all the parts. The aluminum housing from Welsh is nicely built and can't figure out how they sell them for $50!

Also purchased an 8mm claw foot, new thermostat, various hoses and clamps and 4 cap bolts. It took me several hours to remove the old housing, even after breaking the old one off the back bolt on the drivers side would not back off enough to remove it.

I had to cut the bolt with a dremel and backed it out with a set of vice grips, then discovered that bolt was 1/2" longer than the others. (that's just mean!) I decided to give up for the day and reassemble the next day.

I got up early the next day and step one was to assemble the new housing, installing the thermostat only to discover it didn't fit. I can't source one locally and the jag must be put in storage November 1st. I was hoping to get one more run in before that. oh well that's my rant.

 

Unlucky. When I bought my housing from Welsh the thermostat was included, but the price was a little higher than you paid.

 

Cross reference the stant number and it says it fits 2000 xk8. Using my I phone could not get your vec. Description. Are you just missing the seal?

 

My Jag is a 1998, there is a shoulder on the new thermostat that won't allow the cover to fit properly. I have the seal just not in the picture. I went to 3 local auto parts stores today and they have the same style thermostat as the one I bought. All listed as a part for the '98. none would fit. The local Ford dealer says the thermostat for a 2002 Lincoln LS is the one I need. I will run over there tomorrow. if not I will order one from Welsh as I should have in the first place. I didn't realize it didn't come with one until I received it. My fault for not looking closely at the picture before ordering.

 

The thermostat for the 2002 Lincoln LS is exactly what I needed. it is even marked "Made in England" on the box.

 

Either that, or cut off the tab in the housing that blocks non-English thermostats from being installed.