Bench testing coolant sensor

[krazy]

Apparently my coolant level sensing doesn't work. Is there a way to bench test the actual sensor?

Bonus Question - Do any of the check panel sensors vary between models? i.e. Are there 'early' and 'late' oil/coolant/wiper fluid sensors?

[krazy]

Got this response from someone over PM. Going to try it:

Pull the connector to the sensor, short it and then turn your key see if your check panel stays off. Turn the power off. Next, pull your sensor, invert it and plug it in, turn the key and the check panel should still stay off. With the power still on, move the float and you should get the low coolant light.

[nando]

it's just an on/off switch. would be simple to check with a basic multimeter.

[TobyB]

...but it's backwards- opens up when your coolant is low. I recall this because it
took some actual thinking to wire it to a light in the racecar...................

t

[nando]

yeah, but still - it's either open or closed. if it's shorted closed or stuck open, then it's dead, otherwise it should work. :)

[TobyB]

Yeah, righto-
in the ones I've seen apart, the float has a donut magnet in it,
the plastic stalk hides a glass reed switch...

t