coolant temp sensor..

[nando]

checking out my coolant temp sensor as a possible culprit to my engine not wanting to run at all when it's cold (seems fine when it's warm though).

at operating temperature, the resistance on my sensor reads 214 ohms, the bentley says it should be 300-360 at 176f. I'm assuming my engine temp is around 180 at operating temperature, so is my sensor bad? I measured this right after getting off the freeway. if I unplug it, it won't even start..

also waiting for some new plug wires to come in, I checked the wire resistances and they seem okay, although I can see through the sheilding on my main coil wire. :shock: I don't think operating temperature would have much effect on the plug wires though..

[DaN]

Engine temp can affect the plug wires, there may be moisture collecting when cold, which evaporates when hot.

If the sensor is out of range, replace it. As long as you're sure its the correct one..

[AdamF 88iS]

I think your sensor is fine. It should read less ohms at higher temps.

[nando]

I just retested the sensor with the engine cold. the outside temperature? 27 degrees.. brrr.. actually warmer than yesterday.

anyway, it read about 2240 ohms, which is the range for 70 degrees. that's definetly not right for the current temp! that would mean the engine would be 40 degrees warmer than the outside temp (it's been 4 hours since I drove it). going to test it one more time in the morning (not entirely sure the engine is 100% cold, although it sure felt that way).