Message center "check engine temp"

[99Merc5.0]

Has anyone else had this issue. My new merc beeps and tells me to check engine temp. I have to hit reset to see the avg mpg or fuel status.

When I check the temp gauge its running at normal op temp.

Bad sensor? Anyone seen this error before? I tried searching but failed

Thanks,

Thomas

 

[RomeovilleIL]

There are 2 temp sensors - one that goes to the guage on the dash and one that gives data to control systems. How is the truck driving? Is gas mileage extra awful?

 

[shadowless127]

First thing I'd do is make sure there's enough coolant in the system.

 

[swshawaii]

Agree, strange symptoms when the coolant level is below the grey ECT sensor, in the lower t-stat housing.

 

[99Merc5.0]

The truck runs great. Highway mpg is around 20-21. City is 16 or so.

Overflow coolant tank is full.

Where is the temp sensor for the message center?

 

[99Merc5.0]

Does anyone know where the temp sensor is for the message center?

 

[cnsheets]

Not sure if its the same, but on my 2001 explorer sport, it has one temp sender that send signal to the guage, then one that send signal to the PCM. I'm actually in the process of changing mine out because the one is leaking...

Grey connector on the right is the sensor that sends it to the PCM, the one with the reddish connector sends it to the guage.... both are located on the thermostat housing just behind the thermostat, which is just below the throttle body intake....just follow the upper radiator hose then look behind it......... this is for a 4.0 SOHC

two different angles, one from the right, one from the left......

 

[swshawaii]

Your ECT sensors appear to be threaded, I don't see the retaining clips.
Very common the lower housing has split at the seams, or the sensor
brass insert is leaking at the threads. Upgrading to the newer o-ring type
sensor housing (RH-144) will save you money and give you a better design.

http://bengrosser.com/howto/fordthermostat/

See post #29 and up
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=174531

 

[99Merc5.0]

Mines the 5.0 but it seems to have to temp sensors. I'll have to figure out which one though

 

[swshawaii]

Sorry, I was referring to the (cnsheets) pics above. Your 5.0 is a different design.

 

[8734raymondb]

I am having trouble my 2000 explorer has a braking problem when braking at a slow speed the pedal tends to drop and I hear ABS system noise. Can anyone tell me what is wrong?

 

[cnsheets]

Your ECT sensors appear to be threaded, I don't see the retaining clips.
Very common the lower housing has split at the seams, or the sensor
brass insert is leaking at the threads. Upgrading to the newer o-ring type
sensor housing (RH-144) will save you money and give you a better design.

http://bengrosser.com/howto/fordthermostat/

See post #29 and up
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=174531

Mine are not threaded even though they look like it with the shape of the brass. They are positively o-rings and clips.

That bengrosser site is the site I referred to before doing this small project. So far, I see no leaks or cracks in the housing. It just looks like the old oring started leaking.

 

[cnsheets]

Mines the 5.0 but it seems to have to temp sensors. I'll have to figure out which one though

 

[swshawaii]

Please delete.

 

[swshawaii]

Mine are not threaded even though they look like it with the shape of the brass. They are positively o-rings and clips.

That bengrosser site is the site I referred to before doing this small project. So far, I see no leaks or cracks in the housing. It just looks like the old oring started leaking.

If your ECT sensor checks out OK, a new heat resistant o ring may be all you need.
I've read 9mm I.D. x 2.5mm or 3mm thickness is the correct size for a good seal. GL

 

[99Merc5.0]

that temp sensor under the coils is going to be a pain to get to.

 

[swshawaii]

Use a needle nose vice grip removing the sensor retainer clip.
Or tie a string to it, and pry it out with a flat blade screwdriver.

 

[99Merc5.0]

I think once I get the clip off I'll be able to use a deep socket to unscrew the sensor

 

[swshawaii]

Unscrew? Having the retainer clip with an o-ring seal, they just pop out.

 

[99Merc5.0]

Oh I'm use to the 5.0 mustang engines where they unscrew. I thought the merc 5.0 would be the same