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overheat problem

carl_larez

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April 30, 2014
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Year, Model & Trim Level
1998 Ford Explorer
Hi, I have a 1998 Ford Explorer with a 4.0l SOHC V6.
I have replaced my Thermostat, Temperature sensor, and Water pump.
As soon as I start the engine the needle goes straight to hot and stays there, even though the engine is cold, I can literally put my hand on the head of the engine, but it still says it's hot. So, I was wondering if there was a way that I could reset my temp. gauge so that it read cold as cold instead of hot. If anyone can help me out I would greatly appreciate it.
 



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you might have a frayed wire going between the sender and the gauge that is grounding out. that would cause the gauge to peg on "H" immediately.
 






I experienced the same trouble. I first got a temp sensor from a Napa, they listed a couple different ones for my 99. I ended up getting one from the parts department at a Ford dealer and it worked fine.
 






There are two sensors ... one is the temp sending unit, the other is the coolant temp sensor. They look the same, and are right next to each other, but have different connectors. Make sure you replaced the correct one.

If that doesn't work, you need to check that the wiring is OK throughout the circuit (including grounds). Check the wires from the sensor to the gauge with an ohmmeter. The tight bend right at the sensor connector is a good place for damage. It IS also possible that your new sensor is bad or not the right part. There are multiple ones in the stores and they don't all work.

Also make sure you don't have air trapped in the housing (usually makes the sensor read cold not hot).
 






OP, do you recall if the part you replaced was pointy on the bottom or flat (like an new, unsharpened pencil)? the sensor is usually pointy and the sender is flat.
 






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