BrickBoard Archives
The files contained in this listing have been automatically archived from the active forums. Because the vast majority of posts are now in one place, this archive is considered legacy. You should use the SEARCH feature OR choose your topic and select date tabs within the forum you choose.
Temperature Gauge Really Low, High[200/86] posted by Nick on
Thursday, 29 October 1998, at 1:29 a.m.
Hello,
My dash temperature indicator sometimes tends to go all the way low while driving normally and then up almost to the red in the same trip. Other times it will just stay in the middle like it should. Could this be just a bad thermostat or other problems? Would checking my coolant mixture help?
Thanks,
Nick
Alternative Fuel Fehicles
Re: Temperature Gauge Really Low, High[200/86] posted by TH Serum on
Thursday, 29 October 1998, at 10:29 p.m.
I have a similar challenge in our 93 245. Check the Bentley book, my "solution" may apply to your vehicle. First, the engine is not changing temperature, the meter is squirly. If and only if you believe this then take after the sender to gauge system.
Start with the sender. Verify good mechanical and electrical contact. Use a vom to verify its integrity. Again, consult the Bentley book for reasonable values. Move to the guage, verify that the gauge is reading what the sender sends. Replace or repair the bad component.
In my case the culprit was a poor electrical connection between the temperature compensation board and the printed circuit board on the back of the instrument cluster. I removed the temp board. I used some brake fluid/electrical contact cleaner to clean up the pins and contacts. I bent the pins slightly to encourage a stronger electrical conection. And voila! good consistent temperature readings at the guage.
Total cost of repair: 3cents for tissue paper.
Total labor spent investigating: Lord knows how long over a six month period.
Good Luck