DIY Coolant Temperature Sensor change (PICS)
09-07-08, 02:34 PM
#18
After quite a bit of skepticism, I decided $29.99 was worth the plunge. Crap, I spend that much on 1/2 a tank of gas already. My LS has a little over 180K.
This thing was a PITA to remove and install. I don't agree with what Och said, you're bound to spend at least 1 hr trying to remove all the coverings to access this sensor (for 1st gens). It is at a slightly different area and accessibility than the 2nd gens. The metric wrench and deep socket size you will need is 19mm.
When I found mine, it was already loose from the connector. Turns out, it failed or moisture permeated inside, and was VERY corroded. After the install, I took her for a quick spin. I did not remove the ECU fuse during the removal/install because I wanted to see the results without any benefit of the ECU reboot.
Results were smoother idle and powerband. Quick acceleration. I am now a believer. Thank you CL, jasonburt and Zoraone.
This thing was a PITA to remove and install. I don't agree with what Och said, you're bound to spend at least 1 hr trying to remove all the coverings to access this sensor (for 1st gens). It is at a slightly different area and accessibility than the 2nd gens. The metric wrench and deep socket size you will need is 19mm.
When I found mine, it was already loose from the connector. Turns out, it failed or moisture permeated inside, and was VERY corroded. After the install, I took her for a quick spin. I did not remove the ECU fuse during the removal/install because I wanted to see the results without any benefit of the ECU reboot.
Results were smoother idle and powerband. Quick acceleration. I am now a believer. Thank you CL, jasonburt and Zoraone.
Last edited by avalon42; 09-07-08 at 05:12 PM.
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yachtspeed (01-06-18)
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benlex400 (01-26-22)
09-08-08, 08:26 AM
#20
Pit Crew
Thread Starter
I am glad everyone is finding success with this service item.
To this day my car is performing and driving better than ever. Now that the temperatures in Indy have gone from 90's to the upper 60's the car is actually a joy to drive again --- not that it is a hot rod, but you know... it is nice to actually have a healthy running vehicle.
Yes, I am sure a seafoam would help even more as I am sure there is excess carbon build up from the super rich mixture.
To this day my car is performing and driving better than ever. Now that the temperatures in Indy have gone from 90's to the upper 60's the car is actually a joy to drive again --- not that it is a hot rod, but you know... it is nice to actually have a healthy running vehicle.
Yes, I am sure a seafoam would help even more as I am sure there is excess carbon build up from the super rich mixture.
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benlex400 (01-26-22)
09-08-08, 10:52 AM
#22
After quite a bit of skepticism, I decided $29.99 was worth the plunge. Crap, I spend that much on 1/2 a tank of gas already. My LS has a little over 180K.
This thing was a PITA to remove and install. I don't agree with what Och said, you're bound to spend at least 1 hr trying to remove all the coverings to access this sensor (for 1st gens). It is at a slightly different area and accessibility than the 2nd gens. The metric wrench and deep socket size you will need is 19mm.
This thing was a PITA to remove and install. I don't agree with what Och said, you're bound to spend at least 1 hr trying to remove all the coverings to access this sensor (for 1st gens). It is at a slightly different area and accessibility than the 2nd gens. The metric wrench and deep socket size you will need is 19mm.
09-14-08, 07:32 PM
#25
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OK, I tried this on the first gen (94 139k). I am not mechanic but don't have alot of money so I gave it a try. (probably should not have but I did so hope you can help). After I did this the car would start fine and die immediately. I looked over what I had done and noticed the clip on the passenger side ignition coil was busted and not connected, must have pulled it from the coil while trying to remove it. Anyway, that clip is shot and I guess I need to try and get a new one because I can't get it to stay in the connector area.
But, would this cause the car to die immediately or would you think it was something else?
Any help you could give would be greatly appreciated--I did search the forums but need some expert guidance and opinions.
Thanks again!
But, would this cause the car to die immediately or would you think it was something else?
Any help you could give would be greatly appreciated--I did search the forums but need some expert guidance and opinions.
Thanks again!
09-15-08, 06:20 AM
#26
not being completely knowledgeable of the LS, i would say that that wire being pulled from the coil is causing the car to run on 7 cylinders. Maybe the computer reads that and shuts it off as a safety concern. Just guessing. Or perhaps you didn't hook something else back up?
09-21-08, 11:53 AM
#28
Lead Lap
I sure wish I would've thought of this when I had the starter out along with everything else. This really F%&% sucks.
After busting my *** with the starter replacement I do not feel like going back under the hood, but saving gas is worth it.
After busting my *** with the starter replacement I do not feel like going back under the hood, but saving gas is worth it.
09-21-08, 02:48 PM
#29
Pit Crew
Thread Starter
This is 100,000 times easier than the starter replacement. The intake manifold doesn't have to come off.
09-21-08, 10:32 PM
#30
for '98 LS, it is located almost at the same spot as the 1st gen. You will see the sensor right after you remove the V bank cover. Nothing else to remove to change the coolant sensor.