Any hints out there on how to get the thermostat housing nuts off successfully? I finally got the upper one off using vise grips after both my socket and wrench stripped the nut. I swear these things are made out of aluminum. The lower one is starting to strip using the wrench, and I can't get a socket in there between the nut and the A/C compressor. I'm in the middle of a timing belt/water pump replacement and wanted to put a new thermostat in. Should I pull the compressor?

Those damn things. I should show you the carnage of my bay after I had to remove a sheared bolt that held my alternator bracket to the water pump.

you need a better wrench or socket then, the chinese junk is never sized right.

I had this same issue a while back when I wanted to change my tstat. I waited till I reaced the water pump, pulled the whe pump/housing/neck assembly to get access to that nut. And they are aluminum (at least mine were) its to help prevent corrossion.. Plus pulling stuff out gave me a good chance to clean hard to reach spots.

yes remove the compressor. 3 12mm bolts hold it to the block.

Thanks guys, I removed the compressor, used a 6 point socket and it came off beautifully. New thermostat and nuts back on.

I used a 10mm socket on a 1/4" ratchet with a ujoint and a 12" extension. Butter.

I just used a swivel socket to get mine off. Was a bit of a pain but it came off and went on clean.