Testing Coolant Sensor?
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Elder User
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 821
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From: Nashville
Testing Coolant Sensor?
Is there a way to test the coolant sensor accuracy at operating temps? I got a ScanGauge and it showed coolant temps typically around 185-190 at highway speeds unloaded. I assumed it was the t-stat so I replaced it, but it still runs at 185-190 F. This is about 10 degrees low, right? I don't know if it's the ScanGauge or the sensor. Cold engine coolant temps are within a few degrees of the oil and trans temps, which makes me wonder if the thermistor resistance is off on the high end. I guess I could just replace the sensor, but if it can be tested I'd prefer to do that first.
TIA
TIA
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Elder User
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 821
Likes: 1
From: Nashville
Maybe so, Stewey, I dunno. I was basing my assumption on the info I've read posted on this and other forums. Also, the thermostat has two temperature ratings stamped on it: 89 C (192.2 F) and 104 C (219.2 F). I just assumed that the lower number was the point at which the thermostat begins to open, and the upper number was the point at which it is fully opened. I have to admit, though, the old thermostat looks fine. It wasn't stuck open and the spring still feels strong.
Hotshot
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 13,834
Likes: 26
From: Middle Tn.
Maybe so, Stewey, I dunno. I was basing my assumption on the info I've read posted on this and other forums. Also, the thermostat has two temperature ratings stamped on it: 89 C (192.2 F) and 104 C (219.2 F). I just assumed that the lower number was the point at which the thermostat begins to open, and the upper number was the point at which it is fully opened. I have to admit, though, the old thermostat looks fine. It wasn't stuck open and the spring still feels strong.
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Elder User
Joined: Sep 2004
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Likes: 1
From: Nashville
Well, I will see what it does next time it gets warmer here. Until then, is there a way to test the sensor? 
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Hotshot
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 15,369
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From: Stuttgart, Ar
One way to verify the temperature of the sensor is to use a laser temperature sensor. It should be very close to the same temperature where the sensor is screwed in. I'm like Stewey....I think your temps are just fine.
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Thread Starter
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Elder User
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 821
Likes: 1
From: Nashville
Thanks all. I'll see if I can borrow a thermometer gun from someone and check it out, but it's looking like I now have a spare thermostat. Oh well...can't have too many of those, right?
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