If it worked without the T-Stat it tell me the pump is working you should.
Replace the T-stat again, installed facing the correct way with the bleed vent on the top. I actually prefer a 1/4 hole drilled in the top. But do this only once you verify that it is working. (put in a pt of water and heat it up and make sure it opens (should happen right before boiling)).
Then pressure test the system for 30 min at 1.3bar and make sure its holding pressure.
Fill and bleed
Check radiator cap (store can do it)
Pressure test the systems
Then bleed it.
Coolant bleeding
Jack the front of the car up front tires off the ground 4-6 inches.
Take off radiator cap
Take a 2 liter pepsi bottle cut it in half and use some black electrical tape and wrap the bottle neck a little, or get a cooling funnel
Flip it around and place the bottle neck were the radiator cap was at. Pinch off over flow line if not using the funnel.
Now start filling it with coolant about half way
Remove bleeder screw
Close bleed screw after you get a nice even stream of coolant
Squeeze the upper, and lower lined and burp out the air
Add antifreeze until you over fill the rad by a quart
Turn the heat on full blast
Start the engine and let the engine run after 3-10 minutes the thermostat will open and suck in the excess antifreeze (ambient temp affects time)
Fill it again but with about a half of quart.
Let it run until no more bubbles come out. Squeeze hosed time to time.
Replace cap, unclamp overflow hose and then shut off the engine, fill over flow 1/2 to 3/4
Coolant funnel (best to have)
