How is it done? Its getting hot and this needs to be fixed... It may seem simple but why screw something up when I could have asked?

 

This is from an SR...

 

its a ka, is it the same looking piece just under the upper radiator hose? i.e would i need some rtv?

 

use rtv or in some cases the thermostat comes with a new gasket... it is as easy as draining the radiator pulling 3 bolts... pull the thermostat out... scrape both mating surfaces with a gasket scraper get all the crap off both pieces... put the thermostat into the block with the part that says top onb top... put on gasket and a thin layer of rtv if you wish put in the 3 bolts torque down to 12 foot pounds if you believe in that kind of thing... and refill the radiator... start the car turn on the heater purge the system of air and you are done...

 

I like using the grey stuff rtv for water replacement, I like making my own gaskets. I don't trust manufacturer gaskets 100%