I recently replaced the badly warped head on my 86 with one from engnbldr. Everything has been great and the "break-in" is going well. Truck runs so much smoother now. However, I'e been having issues with the temp gauge going nuts. Searched all over the web for info with no avail. I thought it a little odd that when I checked the sensor the first time it was bent and the end was broken off, but didn't think anything else about it. Went to a local u pull it yard and grabbed a few out of some trucks there just in case. Swapped a new one in and started having the same problems. Checked everything from ohm readings at the sensor to ohm readings in the cluster. When I would turn the key on the gauge would shoot up to the middle, then would bounce between there and full hot. Upon removing the sensor again this morning, the one I put in a few days ago is broken now as well, tip broken off revealing the spring inside. Not sure what is causing this issue, and I may just re-locate the sensor to a different place if that will cause no issues. It's just bugging me. Any info or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Here is a photo of the original broken sensor. The one in there now is worse. The sensor is currently in the side of the intake mani near the first runner. Could I move the sensor to either of the locations I am pointing to without any issues?
Yes, as long as the threads are the same. How deep is the cavity below the sensor? You aren't just bottoming it out are you?
I might be bottoming it out. I tried installing the old one without teflon tape, but it leaked unless is was all the way in. I will install another one with a few wraps of teflon tape and just be easy with it. Not sure how tight it needs to be. The cavity behind it in the head has an angle in it. Hard to explain but it turns towards the front of the motor to the water jackets for cyl 1. Any other suggestions?
Try Teflon or thread sealant those threads on the sensor are deep cut . Doesn't need to be hulk tight Probably use the other port if desired .ive never removed that plug on mine it might work I'd go for the one on the side further away from the cylinder head heat for more accurate reading
Don't be afraid to use more wraps of teflon. We use 9 wraps where I work and Grip thread sealant. They never leak.
Got it taken care of today. Wrapped that thing with teflon like it was going out of style. 20 min drive home from work afterwards and no leaks. Thanks for the help guys!
