Trystan Casey
Electric fans and temperature gauges are integral components of a vehicle's cooling system. The temperature gauge monitors the engine's temperature, while the electric fan helps regulate it. When upgrading classic cars with modern features like fuel injection and electric cooling fans, additional temperature senders and ports may be required. The placement of temperature sensors and switches for the electric fan and temperature gauge is crucial to ensure accurate readings and effective cooling. This involves considerations such as port availability, sensor compatibility, and the use of adapters or spacers. Understanding the intricacies of these systems is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance and preventing overheating.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Electric fan and temperature gauge installation | Install a temperature sensor in the thermostat housing, if available. |
| Use an adapter to connect the sensor to the heater hose. | |
| Ensure the sensor accesses coolant flow below the thermostat for accurate temperature readings. | |
| Utilise a thermostat spacer or brass T-fitting if there is a lack of ports for the sender. | |
| Consider using adjustable fan controls to set the desired temperature for fan activation. | |
| Apply heat to soften anaerobic thread sealant when removing or installing plugs. | |
| Place the temperature sensor on the driver's side front port and drill and tap the passenger side port if needed. | |
| Use a voltage stabilizer for certain types of temperature gauges. | |
| Choose between capillary tube or thermistor-based temperature gauges, considering fragility and complexity. | |
| Avoid connecting the gauge wire to a fan relay sender to prevent false readings and potential overheating. | |
| EFI conversion kits often require a dedicated temperature sender, separate from the sender used for the gauge. | |
| Electric cooling fans typically require an additional port for the switch to activate relays. |
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What You'll Learn
Sensor placement
Type of Sensor:
Different types of sensors may have specific placement requirements. For instance, a radiator temperature probe should be placed near the upper radiator hose, about 2 inches below the hose. This ensures that the probe measures the temperature of the coolant after it has been cooled by the radiator.
Engine Temperature Requirements:
The optimal engine temperature range needs to be considered when placing the sensor. Typically, the fan should turn on when the temperature reaches about 5-10 degrees higher than the thermostat temperature and turn off when it drops to about 5-10 degrees lower. Therefore, sensor placement should be such that it accurately detects these temperature variations.
Available Ports:
The availability of ports or holes in the engine block, cylinder heads, or intake manifold should be considered. Some vehicles may have dedicated ports for temperature sensors, while others may require drilling and tapping new holes. Ensure that the sensor placement aligns with available ports or that you are prepared to create new ones.
Accuracy and Consistency:
It is important to place the sensor in a location that provides accurate and consistent temperature readings. Placing the sensor in the ECT/heater feed line or the bypass can improve accuracy. This allows the computer to gather data on engine temperature directly from the coolant. Additionally, using an "actual engine temp sensor" can provide more accurate readings than relying solely on stock configurations.
Functionality and Compatibility:
Mounting Options:
Consider how the sensor will be mounted securely in place. Some sensors may require adapters, zip ties, or other mounting hardware. For example, dry probes for electric fans can be mounted to the top area of the radiator cores on the backside.
In conclusion, sensor placement for electric fans and temperature gauges requires careful consideration of various factors, including sensor type, temperature requirements, port availability, accuracy, functionality, and mounting options. Proper sensor placement ensures accurate temperature readings, effective cooling, and the overall performance of the vehicle.
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Temperature thermistor
A thermistor is a temperature-sensitive resistor and is a combination of the words "thermal" and "resistor". All resistors have some dependency on temperature, which is described by their temperature coefficient. In most cases, the temperature coefficient is minimised, but in the case of thermistors, a high temperature coefficient is achieved. They are often used as temperature sensors.
Thermistors are generally produced using powdered metal oxides, which are dried and sintered to obtain the desired form factor. The types of oxides and additives determine their characteristic behaviour. They come in a variety of shapes, including disk, chip, bead, or rod, and can be surface-mounted or embedded in a system. The typical operating temperature range of a thermistor is −55 °C to +150 °C, though some glass-body thermistors have a maximum operating temperature of +300 °C.
There are two types of thermistors: Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) and Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC). With an NTC thermistor, when the temperature increases, resistance decreases. This is the most common type of thermistor and is used when a change in resistance over a wide temperature range is required. They are used as temperature sensors in the range of -55 °C to 200 °C, though they can be produced to measure much lower or higher temperatures. Their popularity can be attributed to their quick response, reliability, robustness, and low price.
PTC thermistors are used when a sudden change in resistance at a certain temperature is required. They exhibit a sudden increase in resistance above a defined temperature, called the switch, transition, or Curie temperature. PTC thermistors are commonly made from doped polycrystalline ceramic containing barium titanate and other compounds. They are used as self-resetting overcurrent protectors and self-regulating heating elements.
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Electric fan sensor
An electric fan sensor is an important component of a vehicle's cooling system, helping to regulate the engine temperature and ensure optimal performance. Here is some detailed information on electric fan sensors and their placement, functioning, and customisation:
Placement of Electric Fan Sensors
The placement of the electric fan sensor is crucial for accurate temperature readings and effective cooling. The sensor can be mounted in various locations, depending on the vehicle's make and model. Some common locations include:
- The intake manifold: The instructions for some electric fans suggest placing the sensor in the intake manifold. However, some users have expressed uncertainty about its effectiveness.
- Upper thermostat housing: Mounting the sensor in the upper thermostat housing is recommended by some users. This location provides easy access and effective temperature monitoring.
- Radiator: The radiator is another option for sensor placement. Some users secure the sensor to the radiator core using zip ties to prevent movement.
- Heater hose: A sensor can also be installed in the heater hose using an adapter, such as the one offered by Autometer. This option provides an additional temperature gauge for those who want to maintain a stock dash but desire more accurate readings.
- Water neck: The water neck with dual ports can be utilised to accommodate the sensor, providing the necessary ports for the setup.
Functioning and Customisation
The electric fan sensor works in conjunction with the temperature gauge to monitor and regulate the engine's temperature. The sensor typically has a set temperature range within which it operates, turning the fan on and off at specific temperatures. For example, a sensor may be designed to turn the fan on at 190 degrees Fahrenheit and off at 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
Customising the fan control settings is also possible. Some users prefer adjustable fan controls, allowing them to set the desired engine temperature at which the fan should activate. This can be achieved by letting the engine idle until it reaches the desired temperature and then adjusting the thermostat accordingly.
Additionally, users can opt for a trinary switch, which offers three functions. It can protect the compressor, control the cooling fan, and manage the system pressure by activating the compressor when the pressure is correct and shutting it down if the pressure becomes too high.
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Temperature gauge
A temperature gauge is a device used for the accurate measurement and reading of temperature gradients. Temperature gauges are important as they are the only indicator of an engine's temperature. If a temperature gauge stops working, it can lead to engine damage, which can be costly to repair.
There are various types of temperature gauges, including standard digital, glass, or dial thermometers. Dial thermometers are often found in industrial and commercial settings. The most popular types include steel case clip-on temperature gauges and surface-mount magnetic thermometers. Clip-on thermometers are ideal for plumbing applications and are used on pipework and ducting. Remote mounting temperature gauges can be read at a distance from the thermistor probe that takes the readings. These gauges are useful when you need to monitor and display accurate temperature information.
Some common issues with temperature gauges include a faulty coolant temperature sensor, broken thermostat, and air trapped in the coolant system. Air in the cooling system can cause inaccurate readings in the temperature gauge. This can happen when air enters the system through the radiator hoses and pools near the sensor or thermostat.
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Electric fan switch
Electric fans are a great way to keep your engine cool, and with the right setup, you can ensure they work in harmony with your temperature gauges. Installing an electric fan switch is a common way to achieve this, and there are a variety of options available.
One option is to install a temperature sensor for your electric fan. This can be done by adding a sensor in the thermostat housing, or by utilising the port for the heater hose on the front passenger side. You can also relocate your existing gauge sensor and use the freed-up port for the electric fan sensor. This approach allows you to maintain stock appearances while benefiting from more accurate temperature readings.
Another option is to use an adjustable fan switch, which provides greater control over your electric fan's activation temperature. By idling your engine until it reaches the desired temperature, you can then adjust the switch's setting to match that temperature. This ensures that the fan turns on at precisely the right moment.
When it comes to electric fan switches, there are various types available, including adjustable and non-adjustable switches, as well as those designed for single or dual fans. Some switches offer Bluetooth connectivity for convenient control. It's important to choose a switch that suits your specific vehicle and requirements.
Additionally, you can consider using dry probes to activate your electric fans. These probes are mounted to the top area of the radiator cores on the backside. This method offers an alternative approach to utilising temperature sensors.
It's worth noting that some electric fan setups may require you to relocate your coolant temperature sensor or make adjustments to the wiring to ensure the system functions correctly. Always refer to manufacturer instructions or seek advice from experienced individuals when undertaking these installations.
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Frequently asked questions
You can try installing an additional sensor in the thermostat housing. You can also try using an adapter to fit the temp gauge sensor and heater hose in the available ports on the intake.
You can mount the sensor on the front passenger side port for the heater hose or on the driver's side front port for the temperature sensor.
A Spal 16" fan with a Vintage Air Adjustable Fan switch has been noted to work well.
