Gates 33518 Engine Coolant Thermostat

OE Type Thermostat for Precise Cooling Control

Gates 33518 is an OE Type Engine Coolant Thermostat built for direct replacement service in a wide range of European and import applications. It is engineered for accurate temperature regulation and a leak-free, OEM-equivalent fit, making it a practical choice for BMW 325i, Audi 80 Quattro, and Mercedes-Benz 300D cooling system repairs.

Key Features

• OE Type thermostat design for factory-style cooling system operation
• Start-to-open temperature listed at 176°F / 80°C / 82°C / 180°F for application matching
• Bottom by-pass design for vehicles that use this thermostat configuration
• Stainless steel and copper construction for durable thermal response
• OE Performance comparison rating
• Gates part number 33518 for easy catalog lookup

Product Details

The Gates OE Type Thermostat line is focused on direct-fit cooling system service where temperature control matters. Part number 33518 uses a bottom by-pass design and OE-style dimensions to match the original thermostat housing setup on supported vehicles. With a 176-degree opening specification listed in the fitment notes, it serves as a direct replacement for many classic BMW, Audi, Jaguar, Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Lincoln, Volkswagen, and related applications. This part cross-references Stant 13588 and Motorad 247-180 for the same application.

Compatible With applications such as 1987-1995 BMW 325i, 1988-1991 Audi 90 Quattro, 1990-1993 Mercedes-Benz 300D, 1988-1997 Jaguar XJ6, and 1985-1987 Jeep Cherokee, this thermostat supports OE-style cooling system service across a broad import fitment range. Gates 33518 is also listed for 2002-2008 Audi A8 Quattro and 2011 Volkswagen Crafter Van.

What It Helps Address

• Engine running too cool or too hot due to thermostat wear
• Delayed coolant flow control after warm-up
• Temperature fluctuation from a sticking thermostat
• Cooling system service on OE-temperature applications
• Replacement of a leaking or corroded thermostat assembly component

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the thermostat opening temperature, by-pass design, and flange dimensions before installation. This part does not include an installation tool, and the fitment data lists no gasket, seal, or jiggle pin/check valve. Clean the housing sealing surfaces thoroughly and inspect the cooling system for contamination, hose wear, or housing damage before reassembly. Confirm vehicle-specific notes such as “excludes housing” where listed in the fitment data.

Quality Assurance

Gates designs this OE Type Thermostat for precise temperature control and OEM-equivalent fit. The stainless steel and copper construction supports consistent thermal operation in demanding cooling systems, while the OE Performance rating reflects its factory-style replacement focus.