did i swap the right temp sensor?

[jakeb]

The m42 sensor will work and you do not need to rethread anything. If the gauge pegged than your wiring is good.

It looks like you have the wires plugged into the wrong sensors...

[Fidhle007]

You shouldn't have to rethread anything.

[1991 e30 bmw 318is]

You shouldn't have to rethread anything.

ok so the m42 sensor i have is good? if i was stuck using the m20 sensor i would need to rethread it. the m20 one is bigger.

[jakeb]

they both should thread in. The m42 gauge temp sensor will screw right in. I am pretty sure the m20 is the same but am not 100% as I did not swap from a m20.

I think you have the sensors and /or plugs flipped flopped

[1991 e30 bmw 318is]

they both should thread in. The m42 gauge temp sensor will screw right in. I am pretty sure the m20 is the same but am not 100% as I did not swap from a m20.

I think you have the sensors and /or plugs flipped flopped

yes the plugs were going to the right sensors there just in the opposite spot, so they should be fine. and i have the wrong m42 sensor, i have the 2 prong one i need the single. so ill call the guy with my motor and see if he will trade, he should because he will need the one i have. and i want the m42 one because it goes right in. the m20 one i would need to re thread.

[1991 e30 bmw 318is]

Ok it works the thread in the back sensor is different then the front. so it was the same as the m20 and m42, so i put the m42 sensor in it and it works. also got my electric fan in there it should kick in when it get up to temp, also have it on a switch.

Thanks for the help guys.

[THEhomelessONE]

I know this thread is old but still useful information. So you used original e36 ECU temp sensor towards the front of engine and 2 prong m42 sensor in rear? Didn't know m42 also used single prong temp sensors.