The FAQ only gives directions on how to test the Temp Sensor while in the car by checking resistance at the ECM pins. Would those values there apply to testing the sensor by itself, out of the car, unistalled?

Yes, the length of wire is of no consequence.

Heating up the sensor in water or vegetable oil would not make difference either.

But! you have to use a thermometer for the oil as it can go a lot higher than 212 degrees @ sea level.
At higher altitudes the water boils off at lower temperatures as it does not retain the heat.

I suggest testing that item and the engine coolant thermostats in oil for that reason.

I think it makes for a more stable reading from the bottom of the pan, there is no bubbles so you can see the plate first crack open, right on the degree and know when if its fully open or being lazy!

Phil

"...there is no bubbles so you can see the plate first crack open...

Are you thinking thermostat? Ted is checking the sensor.

A cup of water heated to 3 or 4 different temps with the resistance read at each temp is enough to plot a pretty good temp vs resistance curve. Most cooling systems are held to around 195F so you don't need to take a reading all the way at boiling. (Unless maybe if you're on top of Mt Whitney where water boils at ~185.)

Yeah, I got several sensors I am testing to see if they are good. I think MM is talking about both the sensor and t stat testing procedures--submerging them in liquids... A couple of these sensors, I get nothing, no ohms, no volts, I guess they are dead...

In most cases laboratory methods are not needed. These sensors are made around a component which is very reliable in itself, a thermistor, but corrosion and packaging issues eventually open the circuit with age and temp cycles, so instead of being a "little off" they die altogether.

Just be aware there are two types. The black ECT sensor you would find in a 900 has two identical thermistors. One from each pin to case ground. Resistance should agree with the chart within 20%. The blue sensors from the older cars have only one sensing element across the pins.

Water, oil, whatever.


--
Art Benstein near Baltimore


"It could be said that burning wood for home heating is choosing 'a way of life,' rather than just choosing a fuel." -John Siegenthaler