overhead console--temp sensor

[blue_xls]

I recenlty added a overhead console to my 2000 XLS and I am having trouble with the temp sensor....I went to ford and bought one but it doesnt have the two wires like it should that hook to the wires from the console. Is it possible that the truck already has the ambient temp sensor for the console even if its not equipped with a console from the factory? Thanks

 

[ipozestu]

Yea it's possible. It would be on the radiator support between the grill and coil. About half way down 3" long and looks like a cigar. If it's not there go to a junk yard or a wrecker it'll be there. That's what I had to do.

 

[aldive]

Temperature, Outside Air

The thermometer sensor (15A022) is attached to the radiator frame behind the grille. The temperature can be displayed in centigrade or Fahrenheit by pressing the MODE switch.

If the outside temperature falls below 3.3ºC (38ºF), the display will alternate from "ICE" to the outside temperature at a two second rate for one minute.

The outside air temperature reading can be affected by engine heat when the vehicle is idling or has been off for less than two hours. The compass and thermometer (19A548) will limit the increase of the displayed temperature to one degree per minute at very low speeds or immediately after the ignition is turned on. After two minutes at a sustained speed of at least 53 km/h (33 mph), effects of engine heat are minimal and the compass will display the current outside temperature reading. Temperature decreases are always updated immediately.

If the outside air temperature sensor is short or open circuited, then the display will show 60ºC (140ºF) or -40ºC (-40ºF) respectively in place of temperature.

 

[Rhett]

Originally posted by aldive
The outside air temperature reading can be affected by engine heat when the vehicle is idling or has been off for less than two hours. The compass and thermometer (19A548) will limit the increase of the displayed temperature to one degree per minute at very low speeds or immediately after the ignition is turned on. After two minutes at a sustained speed of at least 53 km/h (33 mph), effects of engine heat are minimal and the compass will display the current outside temperature reading.

Interesting. I have installed an inside/outside thermometer in my truck, ran the wire to a sensor which I installed behind the grille, like on the limiteds, only it's a Rhett custom job. At first I had the sensor installed in the door. Bad decision. It's like an insulated oven in there. Moved it to the grille and it's ok, except higher temps at idle or after shutdown from engine heat as you indicate...

I have no mechanism to artificially alter temp based on vehicle speed...doesn't bother me, I know when it's being heated by the underhood heat, and that's not too often.

 

[blue_xls]

Is there anyway anybody knows the part number for the temp sensor for the console?

Thanks

 

[MattHarrell]

I think that the correct part number for a 98+ sensor is F87F-12647-AA. The pre 98's used F3ZY-12A647-AA. You'll definitely want to verify those numbers with someone else or the Ford dealer, though