Engine Temperature Gauge Not Working

crazyangel · Dec 4, 2012

The engine temperature gauge on my RTV900 is not working. I believe this is the same or similar engine as the BX23. I have done a basic check of the wires to make sure everything is plugged in and that there is no visible damage on the wires. How can I test whether the problem lies with the sensing element in the engine or at the gauge itself?

I realize there is a section related to RTV's elsewhere in the forum, but this is a more engine specific question that I think the larger Kubota community can help with. I tried posting there first and got no response. Any help from the mechanics out there would be incredible!!

KennyV · Dec 4, 2012

Your sensing element that is screwed into the engine is a variable resistor, it is changed by heat.
Take the wire off the temp sensor and short it to the engine block, that should indicate hot on the gauge... if it has not then the wiring, gauge or power to the gauge is the problem... if it moves the gauge then the sensor is bad... KennyV

crazyangel · Dec 4, 2012

KennyV said:
Your sensing element that is screwed into the engine is a variable resistor, it is changed by heat.
Take the wire off the temp sensor and short it to the engine block, that should indicate hot on the gauge... if it has not then the wiring, gauge or power to the gauge is the problem... if it moves the gauge then the sensor is bad... KennyV

Thanks Kenny! Just the info I was looking for.

crazyangel · Dec 17, 2012

My problem turned out to be the sensor. When I removed the wire and made contact to ground the needle on the gauge shot up to hot. New sensor is less than $25. I love it when a fix is that simple. :thumbsup:

Thanks again for your advice KennyV!