1999 1.8 petrol, thermostat location/replace? & Lo power

Newbie Joined: Feb 22, 2009 Posts: 17

Hi all... as above. I have a temp gauge that takes ages to rise from the bottom, never going above 60 for most part. Or with heater on, never gets off the bottom. Heater works well enough, warms up in time from cold, and the only time the temp needle ever gets near correct temp is in traffic. As soon as we get moving again, it starts its fall right back to the bottom, if heater is on, a bit higher if its not. But retains reasonable heating at all times. No coolant loss, no signs of distress due to high temp. Actually, I've never heard the cooling fans run (only had the car 3 months). Also, I have a flat spot right off idle, (VCDS lite points to 'throttle valve absolute position switch' or similar) and low power generally when warm. But will also sometimes be low from cold, but usually noticably better- can feel nice snappy acceleration then, but don't make a habit of that on a cold engine. Going out now to try VCDS again. Any ideas welcome, especially, where the thermostat is found, and replacement procedure. I have a new one aready. Thanx y'all!