2nd Generation S-series (1995-2005) Tech Discuss 2nd generation S-series (1995-2005) general tech topics here.

Temp Guage bounces from hot to cold engine is not

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
  #1  
Old 06-21-2011 | 11:39 AM
kenanddeb's Avatar
Thread Starter
|
New Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 3
kenanddeb is on a distinguished road
Default Temp Guage bounces from hot to cold engine is not

97 blazer, temp guages bounces back and forth from hot to cold. Engine is not overheating. Have replaced coolant sensor guage but did not help. Coolant level is good. Need some advice!
 
  #2  
Old 06-21-2011 | 12:11 PM
swartlkk's Avatar
Administrator
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 41,188
From: Waterloo, NY
swartlkk has a reputation beyond reputeswartlkk has a reputation beyond reputeswartlkk has a reputation beyond reputeswartlkk has a reputation beyond reputeswartlkk has a reputation beyond reputeswartlkk has a reputation beyond reputeswartlkk has a reputation beyond reputeswartlkk has a reputation beyond reputeswartlkk has a reputation beyond reputeswartlkk has a reputation beyond reputeswartlkk has a reputation beyond repute
Default

If replacing the sending unit did not help, the wiring at or near the sending unit is likely at fault. The sensor varies the resistance to ground in response to the coolant temperature. If the wiring and/or connector have intermittent connection caused a dirty/corroded contact or a broken wire inside the insulation, it could cause the symptoms you describe.

The gauge should read cold with the wire disconnected (infinite resistance). It should read hot when the wire is grounded to a good ground point (low resistance). The wire in question should be dark green and it runs from the sending unit, through the firewall, to the gauge cluster. Testing this wire with a multimeter should show relatively low resistance and the resistance should not change while flexing the various wiring harnesses/connectors/etc. If it does, replace the wire.

It is worth noting that your truck has two temperature sensors. The one for the gauge is located in the driver side cylinder head. The other, for the PCM, is located near the thermostat housing.
 
  #3  
Old 06-29-2011 | 10:08 AM
kenanddeb's Avatar
Thread Starter
|
New Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 3
kenanddeb is on a distinguished road
Default

Thanks for the information. I have replaced both sensors. I have not checked the wiring yet. Will inform on progress.

Also, I have a starting problem. If I use starter fluid the truck starts great. It will sometimes start without the fluid. Replaced fuel filter, it did not help. After the truck starts it runs like a top. So I do not feel like it is the injectors or pump. I am thinking it may be the ignition module? I have had a mechanic put it on a machine and no code appeared for either problem. He suggested ignition module or distributor. Which do I replace first? And will the ignition module help with the temp guage problem?
 
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
stevenhousden
Engine & Transmission
12
07-06-2014 06:56 PM
kmartin
2nd Generation S-series (1995-2005) Tech
7
01-13-2014 06:41 AM
zakm0n
Engine & Transmission
5
01-09-2011 08:31 PM
ravenhurst
2nd Generation S-series (1995-2005) Tech
15
04-26-2009 08:53 AM
bertrenolds
1st Generation S-series (1983-1994) Tech
4
12-19-2008 08:45 PM



Quick Reply: Temp Guage bounces from hot to cold engine is not



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 01:14 PM.