Hello Lou,
I would test the thermostat in a pan of water on a stove. If the thermostat opens well before the water begins to boil. I would think the thermostat spring is opening too soon. You might try a higher temperature thermostat. Also, I would check the actual operating temperature of the engine. When the engine is cold, I would remove the radiator cap and start the vehicle, and with a thermometer, check the actual operating temperature of the motor, you may have a bad temperature gauge sending unit.
Please see my tip at http://www.fixya.com/cars/r5929960-s_thermostat . These are generic instructions. If you get stuck or need specific instructions for your car, please get back to me with model, year and engine info.
On the 3 liter engine, the thermostat is at the end of the upper radiator hose.
On the DOHC engines, it is at the end of the lower radiator hose.
If you have the 3.4 liter DOCH engine, you have to take the battery, power box, and battery tray out to get at it.
see pictures
3.0 liter:
DOHC engines:
Turn the drain valve at the bottom of the radiator counterclockwise to drain the coolant from your Ford Taurus into a suitable container. Depending on the size of the container, it may be necessary to lift the front end of your Taurus with a jack and lower it onto jack stands, or use wheel ramps.
Follow the upper radiator hose to the point where it meets the thermostat housing at the front of the intake manifold. Loosen the hose clamp and pull the radiator hose off the water connection on the thermostat housing.
Take out the two bolts on the thermostat housing cover with a 13mm socket or wrench and remove the cover. Clean any old gasket residue from the inside of the thermostat housing cover. Pull out the old thermostat.
Insert the new thermostat into the thermostat housing with the spring-side facing into the engine. Install the new thermostat gasket. Use a spray adhesive to hold the gasket in place, if desired.
Reinstall the thermostat housing cover. Tighten the bolts to 89-124 in. lbs. Reattach the upper radiator hose to the thermostat housing. Make sure the drain valve on the radiator is closed.
Fill the radiator with new or reserve coolant. Start your Ford Taurus and allow it to warm up to its normal operating temperature. Check hoses and connections for leaks and tighten hose clamps to stop any leaks, if necessary. Add more coolant as needed.
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