This just started happening the past couple weeks and seems to be getting worse now everyday. When driving around normally, every now and then, the engine temp gauge will jump around like crazy back and forth from the normal engine temp and then burry itself on the cold side and will the truck will cut out for a second and it acts likes it is when i start it on a cold morning and it will idle real high. When this happens i can just idle at 20mph due to it acting like it does on a cold morning start up and this is after the enigine is well warmed. So I am thinking that some sensor is going out and when it jumps over to the cold side the computer reacts and acts like it does on a cold startup. Was just seeing if anybody can help me out on what the problem might be and shed some light on it to help me get this fixed, any help is appreciated. I do have a 160* thermostat if it matters which has been on for several years now.



**EDIT** Can someone tell me where the engine temperature sensor is at...a pic would be even nicer, Thanks

 

I don't know much, but I do know those sensors react very slowly to engine temp change (not like a thermocouple would)... so I don't think you engine is really getting hot. I bet you have a short in the sensor circuit.

 

I'd check the wiring to the Engie temp sensor, and also all block grounds. No codes?

 

Nope no codes, I was also guessing loose connection or the senson is going bad...

 

Possible bad sensor, or the sensor may have some gunk on it not allowing it to get a good signal, or a wiring issue (open circuit or excessive resistance), or you may have low coolant/air pocket, that's not allowing the sensor to get a good reading...

 

Can someone guide me in the direction on where the engine temp sensor is? Thanks

 

Where's the engine temp sensor and where can I get one from?

 

Front left side of engine. (In the head) It's right next to the #1 spark plug boot and the front exhaust manifold bolt. It is the only two wire sensor in that area.....

NAPA AUtoZone the dealership....