How do I check to verify the temperature sensor is operating properly on a 5045E trac

[mascaro1]

My temperature gauge stopped working on my JD 5045E tractor recently and I need help to see if the temperature sensor is working properly. The tractor runs fine but I do not want to operate it without an idea of what the engine temp is. I had the instrument cluster replaced 2 years ago under warranty and this is the only gauge that is not functional.

Any advise on how to check the sending unit would be greatly appreciated.

Regards, Ralph

 

[/pine]

I bought a new one and after I replaced it (UN-needingly) I connected the wire to the old one and grounded the base and held a bic lighter to it...worked fine...

 

[hosspuller]

Put it in boiling water. Should read 212 F or 100 C As long as the water is boiling, the temperature will stay constant. NO is a perfect location for this. Denver is less because of the altitude.

 

[jd110]

Try unhooking the wire from the sender and touching it to a clean ground. With the key on, the gauge should go from cold to hot. If it does, that proves the wiring is ok and the gauge at least will operate, but it doesn't prove it will be accurate. The sensor is tested with an ohmmeter. I don't know the specs, but if you check ohm reading with cold engine and then again with a warm engine, if ohm reading does not change, then the sender is no good. You could have a thermostat stuck open and engine may not be getting warm enough to make gauge move. You can get an inexpensive infra-red temp gauge and take a reading on the cylinder head near the sender to check actual temp for comparison.

 

[peiboy]

Try unhooking the wire from the sender and touching it to a clean ground. With the key on, the gauge should go from cold to hot. If it does, that proves the wiring is ok and the gauge at least will operate, but it doesn't prove it will be accurate. The sensor is tested with an ohmmeter. I don't know the specs, but if you check ohm reading with cold engine and then again with a warm engine, if ohm reading does not change, then the sender is no good. You could have a thermostat stuck open and engine may not be getting warm enough to make gauge move. You can get an inexpensive infra-red temp gauge and take a reading on the cylinder head near the sender to check actual temp for comparison.

Hey jd110, could you please explain how to check the sensor (the ohmmeter part) what setting should you have it at and what do you check?- the two wires together or each one individually or what?
Thanks
peiboy