Coolant Temp Sensor Replacement?

[HR2L]

Ok, I'm sure this has been covered before but I'm not really finding a simple way to replace/access my Coolant Temp Sensor. The only way I see to get to the sensor is by disconnecting the fuel rail so you can get a deep 19mm socket on the sensor (it sits at an odd angle in comparison to the gauge sensor)? Any advice or insight to getting to it without having to rip a bunch of shit out?

Sorry forgot to mention my e30 is a 90 325i.

TIA! :D

[jlevie]

You will have to remove the fuel rail to get at the ECT sensor.

[HR2L]

You will have to remove the fuel rail to get at the ECT sensor.

Darn. Was really hoping to not have too...looks like a bitch, plus I know something like a seat/o-ring is going to become damaged in the process (don't think my injectors have come out of the manifold or rail in a longgggg time). Oh well, thanks for the heads up. :(

[CW325]

i think i removed my thermostat housing to remove it iirc

[CorvallisBMW]

You don't have to remove the fuel rail or the thermo housing. It's called a wrench.

[Mullet Bullet]

or a crow's foot

[HR2L]

or a crow's foot

i need to get a set of these. my boy has these and they have been a life saver. I didn't even think about them. Thanks for the heads up! Going to pick up a set of these in 3/8 drive! Any brand recommendations? :)

[Mullet Bullet]

i only have snap-on and mac so other then that maybe craftsman?

[HR2L]

i only have snap-on and mac so other then that maybe craftsman?

Does the snap on set in mm go to 19mm?

[Keith M]

Yes it does.

[HR2L]

Yes it does.

Nice! Going to pick up the set from the truck with my $400 gift certificate.

[iansane]

I used a deep socket and ujoint.


I have a habit of wrapping a bit of cheap electrical tape around the joint section to keep it fairly stationary while still allowing movement.

[HR2L]

I used a deep socket and ujoint.


I have a habit of wrapping a bit of cheap electrical tape around the joint section to keep it fairly stationary while still allowing movement.

Unfortunately the 19mm deep socket I have is too large to even get a swivel socket/u joint adapter into (between the rail and the sensor). Honestly the Crowsfoot Idea is the best and looks to be the cleanest way in and out without any difficulties. Appreciate the input though. :)

[Keith M]

Just the 19mm instead of the set. I have the complete set and never use it. Spend the rest of the money on a torque wrench or something else that you will use more often.