bigacuralvr

Ok, I searched, and didn't find one person who actually got this gauge installed and running. My question: where has anyone tapped the sensor, or have you all tapped you sensor into the block somewhere?? Any help would be greatly appriciated.

Thanks,

Brett

snap-on

I put an autometer ultralight gauge in.

At first i just tapped the coolant line that goes to the oil cooler. but durring my rebuild i found that the sensor screws right into the coolant drain plug for the block (3vze). It works a lot better in that location.

bigacuralvr

coolant plug in the block? Hmm...do you think there is a plug in the 3.4L? Do you have a picture, or the where-about of this plug??
Brett

snap-on

no pics sorry.... but on the 3vze its on the pass side right in front of the motor mount kinda behind the AC compressor about 3" below the bottom of the head... (right in the middle of the block i guess)

i assume the 5vze has one but couldnt tell you were it is....

bigacuralvr

I'll check it out later today...Im doing my oil pressure sender, so I'll be under there anyways.
Brett

Midget96

I installed a VDO gauge on another car, and didn't even touch the stock "idiot" sensor wiring or tap into the block. You won't get an accurate reading from either of those, anyway, unless the hole in the block is at good point for temperature sampling.

The way I did it is more complex and more costly, but gives you accurate temp readings.

1) Find a radiator heater hose or a coolant hose near the throttle body to install a brass "tee" into - this what I did, but I was working on a Honda, and the 4runner engine bay is very cramped making this difficult. If you go this route, all that's needed for a basic install is a temperature sender that is compatible with your gauge, a brass tee fitting from Lowe's with the NPT thread of your sender and some hose barb connectors to screw into the tee so you can mount it inline with the heater hose. Ultra easy if you can find a line.

For the sender, ususally there a few types: ones that ground where the sensor is located and ones that ground where the gauge is located. Get the one that has you ground it at the gauge. Looks cleaner having 3 wires go to one place that to have them spread out all over.

2) Try something like this (just did a basic google search): http://www.scoobymods.com/forums/showthread.php?t=282

You might be able to find an Earl's fitting here to replace the homemade one. You can also find shiny AN fittings to use for the tee: http://www.amstreetrod.com/EarlsHoses.php4

Info on where to get accurate coolant temps: http://www.rx7club.com/archive/index.php/t-247152.html

bigacuralvr

Thats a great idea!! I'll deff look into that!
Brett