98 intake and thermostat
 

So I'm replacing the intake on my 98 (darn 96/97-only recall!). I'm replacing the thermostat and radiator hoses while I'm at it.

The Stant thermostat that I got at my local parts shop, however, doesn't have the little hole/port on the flange like the stock one did. Did I get the wrong one, or does it matter??? I'm assuming that it's to let a little coolant flow at all times, but I'm not sure.

Sorry if this seems lame, but I'm being very anal on everything since this is the first time I'm doing this type of service on my baby. I've wrenched on it b/f but never taken major parts off the engine....

Thanks

anyone??? pretty please.......

it shouldn't.

thanks
 

Thanks for the reply Deuce, but I went ahead w/the Ford part instead yesterday just to make sure. They said that the little hole is a steam vent, but couldn't tell me how important it is...

oh well, just paid for peace of mind I guess...

she's almost all back together now.. just need to flush the radiator and reconnect all the wire harness plugs and my intake will be brand spankin' new..

thanks again
--Javier