When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
through searching I've come to the conclusion that maybe my coolant temp is not really what the factory gauge shows. I've got a new one, but it comes with no instructions. Obviously it only screws in one way, can't screw that up, but what should I use on the threads? Anything at all?
Also, the headers come pretty close. (3 inches) Could that raise the reading that is showing on the gauge? Has anyone experienced lower temps by maybe putting one of those spark plug boot heat shields on the wire/sending unit? Would that help? Just thought I'd ask before I try to figure out how to actually get a wrench in there to loosen the unit.
I never put anything on the threads...and you want it to get a good ground anyway. You probably know this but some coolant will leak out during the change. Use a protective cover on the wire if you think the header will burn thorugh the insulation...other wise it should have no effect on the guage reading.
Your correct, the temp gauge shows Head temp in the center and not necessarily coolant temp. The coolant temp will be somewhat lower than the gauge reads and will not fluxuate as much as the gauge.
The last couple of times I have changed the temperature guage sending unit I have used teflon tape. Gives it a good seal and there is still a ground made. Just a wrap or two is all it takes so the threads cut through to ground but it prevents any leaks.
The last couple of times I have changed the temperature guage sending unit I have used teflon tape. Gives it a good seal and there is still a ground made. Just a wrap or two is all it takes so the threads cut through to ground but it prevents any leaks.
Bad idea - it can "isolate" the sensor from ground and cause incorrect readings.
Best is good old Plumbers Pipe Cement - you can buy it anywhere and it's inexpensive. I use "Rectorseal" myself because my brother gives me the almost used up cans from his plumbing trucks!
if it is a 79 or 80 .the sending unit is differant.looks the same plugs in the same.has differant ohms value. local suppliers will sell you the part but wont work. check volunteer corvettes.(www.volvette.com)
From: Kansas City, MO ...I'd like to go fishing and catch a fishstick. That'd be convenient. - Mitch Hedberg
Originally Posted by clintwilson
if it is a 79 or 80 .the sending unit is differant.looks the same plugs in the same.has differant ohms value. local suppliers will sell you the part but wont work. check volunteer corvettes.(www.volvette.com)
That's the problem I have in my '80. My stock guage reads 40 degrees high. I run a second mechanical guage that sits where the clock use to. I went through a lot of trouble to figure out my guage was wrong and the car was not overheating. Finally I dropped the sending unit into a pot of boiling water and looked at the guage. The thread still exists with pics here.