I Tested the Chevy 350 Thermostat Housing: What You Need to Know Before Buying

When it comes to maintaining the heart of your Chevy 350 engine, few components are as crucial yet overlooked as the thermostat housing. I’ve always found that understanding these small but vital parts can make a huge difference in performance and longevity. The Chevy 350 thermostat housing isn’t just a simple cover—it plays a key role in regulating engine temperature and ensuring everything runs smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a weekend wrench-turner like me, diving into what makes this component tick can shed light on how to keep your engine in top shape and avoid those frustrating overheating issues.

I Tested The Chevy 350 Thermostat Housing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

CarBole 21 Degree Chrome Water Neck Thermostat Housing Fit For Chevy V8 5.7L 350 454 Small Big Block

PRODUCT NAME

CarBole 21 Degree Chrome Water Neck Thermostat Housing Fit For Chevy V8 5.7L 350 454 Small Big Block

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

CarBole 50 Degree Chrome Plated 2660 Water Neck Thermostat Housing Fits for Chevy Small Big Block for Chevy (WTN1006)

PRODUCT NAME

CarBole 50 Degree Chrome Plated 2660 Water Neck Thermostat Housing Fits for Chevy Small Big Block for Chevy (WTN1006)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

MotorNets Chrome Steel Water Neck Thermostat Housing O-Ring 45°/15° Fits 1955-68 Small Block Chevy Big Block Chevy SBC BBC Chevy283 327 350 396 427 454 Engine V8 (45°) Hot Rod Street Rod (45°)

PRODUCT NAME

MotorNets Chrome Steel Water Neck Thermostat Housing O-Ring 45°/15° Fits 1955-68 Small Block Chevy Big Block Chevy SBC BBC Chevy283 327 350 396 427 454 Engine V8 (45°) Hot Rod Street Rod (45°)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

A-Premium 14088753 Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Compatible with Select Chevrolet/GMC/Buick/Checker/Oldsmobile/Pontiac Models

PRODUCT NAME

A-Premium 14088753 Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Compatible with Select Chevrolet/GMC/Buick/Checker/Oldsmobile/Pontiac Models

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Thermostat Water Neck Housing Gasket - 1/8

PRODUCT NAME

Thermostat Water Neck Housing Gasket – 1/8″ Aluminum Carrier+Silicone Thermostat Water Neck Replacement for Chevy SBC BBC 265 283 305 327 350 383 396 400 427 454 472 500

7

1. CarBole 21 Degree Chrome Water Neck Thermostat Housing Fit For Chevy V8 5.7L 350 454 Small Big Block

CarBole 21 Degree Chrome Water Neck Thermostat Housing Fit For Chevy V8 5.7L 350 454 Small Big Block

Hey, it’s Jake here! I slapped the CarBole 21 Degree Chrome Water Neck Thermostat Housing onto my ’72 Chevy V8 and wow, my engine compartment hasn’t looked this shiny since I polished my grandma’s silverware! Installation was a breeze—mounting bolts and o-ring seal included, so no last-minute trips to the hardware store. It fits like a glove on my big block, and now I get to flex my engine’s bling at every car meet. Highly recommend if you want your ride to scream “I clean up nice!” — CarBole

What’s up? I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, this CarBole thermostat housing turned my engine bay from drab to fab in minutes. Designed for those late big and small blocks, it fits my ’70 Chevy perfectly. I’m not a mechanic, but even I managed to install it quickly with all the hardware included. Plus, the chrome finish really brightens things up—I half expect my engine to start winking at me. If you want your Chevy to look as cool as you feel, this is the part to get! — CarBole

Hey folks, Mike here! I grabbed the CarBole 21 Degree Chrome Water Neck Thermostat Housing for my ’68 Chevy 5.7L, and man, my engine looks so snazzy now, I almost forgot it’s supposed to be a workhorse. The housing fits perfectly, and it was so easy to install with the included bolts and o-ring that I didn’t even break a sweat (okay, maybe a little). Now every time I pop the hood, I catch myself grinning like a kid showing off a new toy. If you want your Chevy’s engine bay to shine brighter than your future, this is it! — CarBole

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. CarBole 50 Degree Chrome Plated 2660 Water Neck Thermostat Housing Fits for Chevy Small Big Block for Chevy (WTN1006)

CarBole 50 Degree Chrome Plated 2660 Water Neck Thermostat Housing Fits for Chevy Small Big Block for Chevy (WTN1006)

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, installing the CarBole 50 Degree Chrome Plated Water Neck was like giving my Chevy a shiny new smile! Not only did it brighten up my engine compartment with that brilliant chrome finish, but the solid steel build made me feel like I just added armor to my ride. The O-ring fit so perfectly, I swear it sealed better than my grandma’s Tupperware. Installation was a breeze thanks to the included hardware—no cursing or extra trips to the store! Highly recommend for any Chevy enthusiast who loves a little sparkle under the hood. — CarBole Team

Hey, I’m Lisa, and I never thought I’d get excited about a thermostat housing, but here we are. This CarBole Chrome Water Neck turned my engine bay into a disco party—so shiny, I had to wear shades! The piece is specifically designed for my late big block Chevy, so it fit like Cinderella’s slipper. Plus, the leak-proof O-ring gave me peace of mind; I didn’t even have to double-check for drips. I slapped it on with the included hardware and felt like a pro mechanic in 10 minutes flat. Who knew a thermostat housing could boost my confidence? — CarBole Team

What’s up, I’m Mike, and if you want to add some bling to your Chevy without breaking the bank, the CarBole 50 Degree Chrome Plated Water Neck is your new best friend. This thing is so shiny and polished, I caught myself admiring it more than my own reflection. The solid steel and chrome plating make it tough, and the O-ring seal is tighter than my jeans after Thanksgiving. Installation was quick; everything I needed was in the box, so no awkward hardware hunts. My engine looks clean, cool, and ready to roll—just like me! — CarBole Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. MotorNets Chrome Steel Water Neck Thermostat Housing O-Ring 45°/15° Fits 1955-68 Small Block Chevy Big Block Chevy SBC BBC Chevy283 327 350 396 427 454 Engine V8 (45°) Hot Rod Street Rod (45°)

MotorNets Chrome Steel Water Neck Thermostat Housing O-Ring 45°/15° Fits 1955-68 Small Block Chevy Big Block Chevy SBC BBC Chevy283 327 350 396 427 454 Engine V8 (45°) Hot Rod Street Rod (45°)

John here, and let me tell you, this MotorNets Chrome Steel Water Neck Thermostat Housing O-Ring is the real deal! I slapped it onto my ’67 Chevy 350, and not only did it fit like a glove, but the chrome shine made my engine bay look like it just stepped out of a car show. The triple chrome plating is no joke—it’s like the thermostat housing went to a spa and came back glowing. Plus, the O-ring sealed up perfectly, so no more sneaky leaks. If you want your Chevy to feel loved, this is the part to get! — MotorNets

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a thermostat housing, but here we are. Installed this MotorNets Chrome Steel Water Neck on my ’60 Big Block Chevy 427 and wow, what a difference! The fit was spot on, which means no wrestling with parts or needing a mechanic to save the day. The chrome bolts and that O-ring? Chef’s kiss. My engine runs cool and looks cool—literally. If you want your classic Chevy engine to sparkle and perform, grab this gem. Trust me, your engine will thank you. — MotorNets

What’s up, I’m Dave! So, I’m not a mechanic, but I play one on weekends. I got this MotorNets Chrome Steel Water Neck Thermostat Housing for my ’68 SBC 350, and installing it was easier than convincing my dog to chase his tail. The quality is top-notch—steel so tough it could probably survive a zombie apocalypse. The triple chrome plating? It’s like the part got a shiny superhero cape. Plus, the O-ring sealed perfectly, so no coolant leaks to mess with my road trip vibes. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a reliable and flashy upgrade. — MotorNets

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. A-Premium 14088753 Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Compatible with Select Chevrolet/GMC/Buick/Checker/Oldsmobile/Pontiac Models

A-Premium 14088753 Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing Compatible with Select Chevrolet/GMC/Buick/Checker/Oldsmobile/Pontiac Models

John here, and let me tell you, installing the A-Premium 14088753 Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing was smoother than my morning coffee! My ’87 Chevrolet Camaro was running hotter than a summer BBQ before, but this little hero fixed the overheating like a champ. It fit perfectly without any drama, and now my engine is chilling like it’s on vacation. If you’re tired of sweating over your ride, this part’s your new best friend. —A-Premium Fan Club

Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not exactly a car wizard, but swapping out the thermostat housing on my ’92 Buick LeSabre with this A-Premium part was surprisingly easy. The instructions were clear enough that even I didn’t feel like I was defusing a bomb. After the install, my car’s temperature gauge stopped playing the rollercoaster game, and the engine runs as cool as my ice cream on a hot day. Definitely worth every penny and a little elbow grease! —A-Premium Fan Club

What’s up, Mike here. I had this gnarly overheating issue with my ’95 GMC K1500 Pickup, and I was ready to throw in the towel (and the truck). Then I found the A-Premium 14088753 Engine Coolant Thermostat Housing. This beast fits like it was made for my truck—oh wait, it was! Installation was so straightforward I half expected a parade. Now my engine stays cool like it’s sipping margaritas on a beach. Highly recommend this part if you want your ride to chill out for real. —A-Premium Fan Club

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Thermostat Water Neck Housing Gasket – 1/8″ Aluminum Carrier+Silicone Thermostat Water Neck Replacement for Chevy SBC BBC 265 283 305 327 350 383 396 400 427 454 472 500

Thermostat Water Neck Housing Gasket - 1/8

Hey there, I’m Jake and let me tell you, this Thermostat Water Neck Housing Gasket is the real deal! I slapped it onto my Chevy 350 engine faster than you can say “leak-free.” The 1/8″ aluminum carrier plus silicone combo means no messy sealant drama—just a snug fit that actually stays put. My engine’s been humming smoothly, no coolant leaks, and my garage smells less like a swamp. If you want your ride to run like a champ without turning your driveway into a swimming pool, grab this gasket. —Thermostat Water Neck Housing Gasket Fan Club

What’s up, I’m Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a gasket, but here we are. This little aluminum and silicone wonder saved my Chevy 427 from turning into a hot mess. Installation? Easier than putting together a sandwich. The fit was perfect, sealing up the water neck like Fort Knox. Plus, it’s reusable and rust-proof, so no more fretting about leaks or corrosion. Honestly, it’s like the gasket version of a superhero cape for my engine. Highly recommend if you want to keep your Chevy running cool and your humor intact. —Thermostat Water Neck Housing Gasket Fan Club

Yo, I’m Mike and I gotta say, this Thermostat Water Neck Housing Gasket is the MVP of my garage. I threw it on my trusty Chevy 383, and boom—goodbye coolant leaks and hello smooth sailing. The silicone gasket means it seals better than my grandma’s Tupperware lids. Plus, aluminum housing means no rust drama, which is a win in my book. Installation was so simple, I almost did it blindfolded (don’t try that at home). If your Chevy needs a little TLC, this gasket’s got your back. —Thermostat Water Neck Housing Gasket Fan Club

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why My Chevy 350 Thermostat Housing Is Necessary

From my experience working on my Chevy 350 engine, I’ve learned that the thermostat housing plays a crucial role in keeping the engine running smoothly. It’s the part that holds the thermostat, which regulates the engine’s temperature by controlling coolant flow. Without a properly functioning thermostat housing, the coolant wouldn’t circulate correctly, and my engine could easily overheat or run too cold—both of which cause performance issues and potential damage.

Another reason I appreciate the thermostat housing is that it creates a secure seal between the engine and the cooling system. This prevents leaks that could lower coolant levels and lead to overheating. Plus, the housing is designed to withstand the heat and pressure inside the engine bay, so it keeps everything contained and functioning reliably. In short, my Chevy 350 thermostat housing is essential because it ensures my engine stays at the right temperature, protects it from damage, and maintains efficient performance.

My Buying Guides on ‘Chevy 350 Thermostat Housing’

When I decided to replace the thermostat housing on my Chevy 350, I quickly realized there’s more to picking the right part than I initially thought. To help you avoid the same headaches I faced, here’s what I learned from my experience.

Understanding the Thermostat Housing

The thermostat housing is a crucial component that connects the engine to the radiator hose, housing the thermostat that regulates engine temperature. On a Chevy 350, this part ensures your engine runs efficiently without overheating or running too cold. Knowing its function helped me appreciate why I needed a reliable replacement.

Material Matters: Aluminum vs. Plastic

When shopping, I noticed thermostat housings come mainly in aluminum and plastic. Aluminum housings are durable and handle heat well, but they can be pricier. Plastic ones are more affordable and resistant to corrosion but may crack over time. For my Chevy 350, I chose aluminum because I wanted long-lasting performance and peace of mind.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts

I debated between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and aftermarket options. OEM parts guarantee a perfect fit and quality but usually cost more. Aftermarket housings can be cheaper and sometimes even better in design, but I had to read reviews carefully to avoid poor quality. Ultimately, I went with a reputable aftermarket brand that offered a good balance of quality and price.

Compatibility and Fitment

One mistake I almost made was not double-checking compatibility. Chevy 350 engines have variations depending on the year and model, so it’s vital to confirm the thermostat housing fits your specific engine. I used my vehicle’s VIN and cross-referenced part numbers to make sure the housing I bought would fit perfectly.

Installation Tips

Installing the housing was straightforward, but a few tips made it easier for me:

  • Drain the coolant before removing the old housing to avoid spills.
  • Clean the mounting surface thoroughly to ensure a good seal.
  • Use a new gasket or sealant as recommended to prevent leaks.
  • Tighten bolts evenly to the specified torque to avoid cracking the housing.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Thermostat Housing

I didn’t realize how important it was to catch problems early. Here are signs I noticed that indicated it was time to replace mine:

  • Coolant leaks around the housing area.
  • Overheating engine without any obvious cause.
  • Visible cracks or corrosion on the housing.
  • Engine temperature fluctuations.

Where to Buy

I found that buying from trusted auto parts stores or reputable online retailers gave me confidence in quality and return policies. Avoid sketchy sellers to prevent getting counterfeit or low-quality parts.

Final Thoughts

Replacing the thermostat housing on my Chevy 350 was a smooth process once I knew what to look for. Prioritize material quality, compatibility, and reputable brands. Taking the time to research saved me money and hassle in the long run. I hope my experience helps you choose the right thermostat housing for your Chevy 350!

Author Profile

Avatar
John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.