I need to install a new thermostat xabke. Took the old one off and did not pat atten r ion to position of flaps. So fully closed is what the book says and that would be open on passenger side and closed on drive dide..........right?

Air-cooling flaps: Cold engine position (minimum airflow over oil cooler)

The flaps should default to the open (warmed up) position when no cable is attached, because of the return spring.
The thermostat contracts when cold and pulls the flaps closed.