Gates 34318 Engine Coolant Thermostat

Gates 34318 Heavy-Duty Thermostat Overview

The Gates 34318 Heavy-Duty Thermostat is an engine coolant thermostat built for demanding cooling systems in heavy-duty service. It uses a Weir-Stat design with stainless steel, steel, and copper construction, plus an O-ring and perimeter seal for a controlled fit in the housing.

Gates Heavy-Duty Thermostat Green Stripe products are engineered for the noise, vibration, and harshness common in truck, bus, tractor, and heavy equipment environments. This 180-degree thermostat is also listed for Dodge Viper applications, including 1992-2002 Dodge Viper and later 2003-2006 and 2008-2010 Dodge Viper models.

Key Features

• Part number: Gates 34318
• Heavy-duty engine coolant thermostat
• Weir-Stat design for controlled coolant flow
• 180°F / 82°C start-to-open temperature
• Stainless steel, steel, and copper construction
• Jiggle pin weep hole for air bleeding during service
• O-ring and perimeter seal design
• No installation tool included
• Fits Dodge Viper applications across 1992-2010 model years

Detailed Description

The Gates 34318 thermostat is built for cooling system service where stable temperature control matters. Its heavy-duty construction and Weir-Stat design support consistent coolant regulation, while the jiggle pin weep hole helps purge trapped air during installation and refill. With a 180-degree opening point, this thermostat matches OE-temperature and alternate-temperature service needs listed for Dodge Viper fitments.

This part cross-references Carlson 15228 for the same application. If you are replacing a thermostat on a Dodge Viper, Gates 34318 provides a direct service option for 1992-2002 Dodge Viper, 2003-2006 Dodge Viper, and 2008-2010 Dodge Viper applications.

Common Issues This Part Addresses

• Engine running hotter than normal due to a thermostat that no longer opens correctly
• Slow warm-up or unstable coolant temperature from a worn thermostat
• Coolant flow irregularities caused by a sticking thermostat valve
• Air trapped in the cooling system after thermostat service
• Leak concerns at the thermostat seal interface

Installation Notes and Tips

• Verify the housing and sealing surfaces are clean before installation.
• Install with the jiggle pin oriented to help air escape during fill and bleed procedures.
• Confirm the 180°F opening specification matches the vehicle’s cooling system requirement.
• Use the listed seal style and avoid reusing damaged housing components.
• Check coolant level and inspect for leaks after the engine reaches operating temperature.

Quality Assurance

Gates Heavy-Duty Thermostat Green Stripe components are built for demanding underhood conditions found in heavy-duty truck, bus, tractor, and equipment service. The Gates 34318 is manufactured with durable metal construction and a service-oriented sealing design for consistent thermostat operation.