Cool Temp Sending Unit

Mustang_Sally · Mar 1, 2013

Just got the sending unit today, came home, removed the old one with some channel locks(I don't have a 17mm deep socket) and popped the new one in. I got it threaded about 55% of the way down using the channel locks, put the wire back on and warmed the car up. It works, now my question to you guys is: Does the sending unit need to be screwed all the way into the lower intake or is it okay that it sticks up about 1/4"?

Thanks Guys,

Mustang Sally

Slipperman · Mar 1, 2013

If your sending unit is like mine on my '04 GT, it's a pipe thread (tapered). It's designed to wedge into the female threaded hole and create a seal. So if this is the case, yes, 55% insertion is proper.
One thing though:
The seal needs help from a sealant such as teflon tape. That's fine, but the sensor needs electrical contact with the coolant passage for proper grounding.
What's the solution?
I've always had good results from using just 1.5 to 2 turns of tape leaving the leading thread bare. This way, you get the contact and a water tight seal.