Hoping folks can help me with a question about the Temperature Sensor. When the car isn't warmed up I find that it wants to chug a bit and then takes off like a scalded rabbit. Researching this suggests that the computer is sending a signal to enrich the gas because of an incorrect water temp reading. The solution according to the same posts is to replace the Temp Sensor. Given that the temp gauge never exceeds 50 degrees C, it seems to make sense. Assuming this is correct, where can I find the location of said sensor? The car is an '84 300 Z31 (2 + 0) Canadian car.

Highlighted above (for use in an '84 V30, etc engine) I can't seem to find it on my motor. So, if this:

1. sounds like the problem
2. exists on my car

I would be extremely grateful if someone could point me in the right direction.

 

The sensor used by the computer is the cylinder head temperature sensor. It is located behind the timing belt cover. It is a hard item to change out. Some people relocate the sensor due to the problem with replacement. The cable runs on the passenger side of the engine top of the valve cover. It goes down under the coolant pipe on the front of the engine. Here is a video showing where it is located.


Larry

 

Thank you, Larry. Much appreciated! Any suggestions as to a new home for a relocation?

 

The engine coolant temperature sensor and the cylinder head temperature sensor are two different parts. Bonehead parts store people sometimes confuse the two.


The chts sends its signal to the ecu only.


The coolant temperature sensor sends a signal to both the fuel injector fan on the cars that have it which are the 1984-T, 1985-T, and 1986-NA models and to the dashboard coolant temperature gauge. The cts does not send its signal to the ecu. It’s located on the passenger side of the intake manifold.

 

According to the Z Store, the CHTS 'located in the front of the driver's side cylinder head' and 'This sensor was incorrectly listed as being located on the passenger side head; while its function of sending a signal to the ECU was correct. This was based on decades old data that was unfortunately never reviewed or updated. Upon recent review, it was discovered that it was also a duplicated part number (11-3451).'

It sounds then (to me anyways) that I might just need both sensors as the coolant temp display never gets anywhere near centre and the radiator fan is always running. My car has analog display rather than the digital option. So, I should be looking for these guys:

 

Some news:

I replaced the temperature sensor and now the temp gauge barely gets off the pin (and registers 60? degrees).
I wasn't able to get to change the sensor behind the timing gear as it seems to be recessed enough to make it impossible for me to get a socket and ratchet on it even with some judicious metal removal from the cover. The next step seems to be relocating it.

Thanks again for all the help.