I've been trying to replace the thermostat in my Lucida 2.2 diesel auto. I've removed the stat housing, but the thermostat is impossible to remove. The top part has broken away from the lower section which remains in the housing as though it is welded in place. I've spent an entire day hitting it, pulling it, bending the perimeter inwards away from the housing, heating it, you name it I think I've tried it! It is now somewhat mashed up in the housing, the sides seem to be able to flex a bit but the bottom section of the stat will not budge. Any ideas other than an exchange engine would be very welcome!

Grim., December 2010

do you have a replacement thermostat at hand,if so have a look and check if there is anything on the new one which is causing your problem,shouldnt be that tight,not done one of these before but some come as a complete unit in the housing,the description you are giving about removal means there are issues involved which is hard to work out but you could try a manual at your library and have a quick look to see what is stopping your thermostat from removing from your engine

cdc, December 2010