Hey guys - just wanted to do some maintenance on my 2008 dakota v8 and swapped out the themostat and tried bleeding the system. Engine runs hot now. Talked to a mechaninic and he said turn the thermostat around and I did. Same thing - engine runs hot (almost to the H mark). I get hot air from the heater. So here's my questions -
1) The thermostat spring is suppose to face the radiator or into the engine block?
2) Is there bleed screw somewhere?
3) To burp the system i have been running the motor with the heat turned up and heater fan on full blast with the rad cap off and filling the rad as needed. Am i missing something?

 

Did you use the correct t-stat?

 

I think its the right thermostat - got it from Advance Auto - CARQUEST Engine Coolant Thermostat Part # 14369

So I bled the system from the bleeder screw and air came out and then no more. Heater still works but the lower radiator hose is still cool and engine is still over heating. Still not sure if there is still air somewhere or the thermostat is backwards or defective.