I have a 2000 3.0 flex fuel ranger. I am changing out my thermostat and do not know which way the thermostat goes in. Right now i have it with the spring side down but i am not 100 percent that is correct. I stated my car and let it idle but my needle did not move. If anyone has any experience with thermostats i would greatly appreciate your feedback.

 

Correct, spring points towards the engine and not the radiator.