I have a 2001 2500 5.9L gas. I removed the A/C compressor to replace it and discovered I have a coolant leak. It looks like it may be the upper radiator hose, or a small hose that's under the A/C & alternator bracket. Couple of questions:

1. The upper radiator hose looks old, and I want to replace it. While I have it off, I'd like to replace the thermostat as routine maintenance. I can't see where the housing is easily, and I'm wondering if it's under the accessory bracket. Is that where the housing is, and do I have to remove the accessory bracket?

2. The small coolant hose under the A/C / alternator bracket may also be the source of the coolant leak. Looks like the accessory bracket may have to be removed to get to it. Same question as above - how hard is it to remove this bracket.

I figure that while I have the A/C compressor off, now is the time to get to these 2 items while I have the accessibility. Thanks.

 

Gotta pull the alternator as well. You can just set the a/c compressor aside, but, yeah, that bracket needs to come off to get to the bypass hose. While it is out of the way, there will never be an easier time to replace the thermostat.

Stant Superstat please. Anything else, and you will likely get to do the job again.