I just bought a new thermostat. However, After pulling the old one out I noticed that the new one looks different. It doesn't have that spring dealie goin down to the bottom of the water pump.

Is this typical of a thermostat? The guy at the parts store told me it was the right thing after I questioned him.

Thanks for the help!

 

he probably gave you a SBC one.... I get guys coming in wanting parts from me ALL THE TIME, and the when I ask what vehicle they have they just say SBC, when I ask what year they say a SBC is a SBC is a SBC. WRONG!!!

/exiting rant mode
Anyways, heres something that might help clear things up a bit.
Clicky

 

It's the wrong one if it doesn't match your old one. It is not the commonly found small block Chevy thermostat.

 

thermostats for 4th gen lt1s' cost around 12-15 dollars at the parts store... If you only paid around 3, then its probably the wrong one..