Were is the pick up for the temp gauge?

[denisbmwm5]

My temparature gauge doesnt work. i checked it and the gauge it self works but now im wondering were the pick up is. On the radiator? or the housing for the turmastat?

[PanamaE30]

It's on the thermostat housing on the M20...

[george graves]

Do you know if the signal goes thru the ecu and then to the dash? Or just straight to the dash?

[PanamaE30]

I believe straight through, but I may be mistaken..

I say this because mine is actually being replaced as we speak.. and my mechanic was saying that if it wasn't the thermostat it was the cluster :\

[denisbmwm5]

Yes i got the m20 but is it both the sancers? And what if i dont have a thermastat the temp wont show???

[PanamaE30]

I've been running without a thermostat for like 4 months. the temp needle just sits dead.

[george graves]

Well it would move to it's "ZERO" mark when you turn the key, right?

[PanamaE30]

uh nope, sat dead.

[rs4pro3]

it goes threw the engine harness to pin 4 on the c101 then to the instrument cluster

[george graves]

On all e30's with the c-101?

[rs4pro3]

88 and 87 for sure I'll check on your 89 realy quick.

[rs4pro3]

Yep same for all, this is for the Coolant temp guage in the cluster and not the Engine temp sender.

[denisbmwm5]

Well my c101 conactor is modifed top fit the 318 harness so maybe thats why im not getting a reading and no the needle doesnt even move then i turn the key. i guess ill have to install a aftermarket cooling gauge and pick up right?

[denisbmwm5]

Oh so it reads from the colant tank thats what ur saying? sorry but i dont know much about e30 cooling sencers(sorry for stupid Q's)

[rs4pro3]

no from the thermostat housing. There are 4 sensors there on eta's and two on I's one is the coolant temp, one is engine temp, one is Thermotime(for coldstart valve).