92 Cutlass little problem , little help

[3XTurboAgain]

Ok so i fixed an oil leak on a 92 cutlass 3.1 today, changed the O ring on the pump shaft, changed oil + filter, then i replaced the heater core line that was rotted out... filled the car up with antifreeze, temp got to about 220 so i decided to shut it off and let it cool completely down to top the radiator... thought no big deal the coolant must be low and the thermostat cant open, then i topped the radiator a bunch of times and still cant get the temp down. I thought the thermostat was stuck closed but noticed the upper radiator hose was hot which i thought meant the stat was open... The radiator is topped off and im getting readings OVER 220-250. Not really sure what the problem is but thought id ask you guys... Am i supposed to use the bleeders on stat housing and water pump ? if so, how? Also , should i change the stat anyway? Iill be working on the car again tomorrow so if you guys can help me out, id appreciate it. thanks in advance.

[3100 MPFI]

yes, you use the bleeder on the t-stat housing. As long as air comes out, or the water is erratic, you need to bleed it. To change out the t-stat, you just remove the 2 bolts on the cover, and swap it out. Takes less than 5 minutes in that car.

also, check to make sure that your cooling fans are kicking on.

[3XTurboAgain]

no- i know how to change the thermostat, i was wondering how i use the bleeder... do i crack it open and start the car until it gets to operating temp then close it and thats it?

[bszopi]

With the car running, and warmed up, crack open the bleeder and let the air out. Keep it open until straight water comes out. It sometime takes a few minutes to fully bleed the system.

[3XTurboAgain]

thanks guys, i appreciate the help, should be all set now : )