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CJ temperature gauge issue

Discussion in 'CJ' started by 81CJ5, Dec 1, 2016.

  1. Dec 1, 2016 at 12:28 PM
    #1
    81CJ5

    #1
    81CJ5 [OP] New Member

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    Pete
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    1981 CJ-5 4 cyl
    I have an 81 CJ-5 with a 4-cyl engine and the temperature gauge sending unit/sensor died. I know the gauge itself and wiring are good as the tech service manual troubleshooting guide has one install various resistors inline and see where the gauge needle moves to. The problem is that no where on this planet have a found a sending unit like the one I pulled out. The threads are even wrong on the replacement parts (3/8 vs 1/2 and I have to install an adapter bushing), and the needle never moves into the "green" when hot. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks.
     
    81CJ5, Dec 1, 2016
    #1
  2. Jan 1, 2017 at 3:54 PM
    #2
    Jeepcj5

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    Jeepcj5 Member

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    I am just wondering but do u have the GM (iron duke 4 cyl? ) I have a 1980 cj5 Golden Eagle with the 2.5 Iron Duke and IMO may be the problem for ur sending unit . Tell the parts guy it is a GM motor. (if it is ) Also are u talking about the factory temp gauge or an aftermarket one ( for got to ask that ) but anyway let us know back :)
     
    Jeepcj5, Jan 1, 2017
    #2
  3. Jan 1, 2017 at 6:10 PM
    #3
    OFFGRID

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    OFFGRID Well-Known Member

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    Peter
    Houston
    Vehicle:
    1979 Jeep CJ7, 258, TH350, NP208
    Howell fuel injection, header, HEI distributor, TH350, NP208, SOA lift with YJ springs in the front & GW springs in the Rear. AMC20 with G2 1 piece chromos trussed, Dana 30 with G2 chromos and 760x ujoints and MM Stainless Hubs, Geared 4.56. Tom Woods shafts, Metal cloaks, Caged, 37" Toyo MTs.
    OFFGRID, Jan 1, 2017
    #3
  4. Jan 2, 2017 at 11:36 AM
    #4
    C2T

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    C2T Well-Known Member

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    Richard
    Helena, Montana
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    2.5" AEV Dual Sport lift, 35" Treadwright Guard Dogs, Black Rock Wheels, AEV Front & Rear Bumpers with Tire Carrier, Fuel Caddy 10 gal. Aux. fuel tank, Warn 9.5ti, 125' synthetic winch line, front axle skid, 20" LED light bar , Bilstein Shocks, steel steering skidplate,
    Welcome to the Forum Pete.
     
    C2T, Jan 2, 2017
    #4
  5. Jan 3, 2017 at 7:34 AM
    #5
    81CJ5

    #5
    81CJ5 [OP] New Member

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    1981 CJ-5 4 cyl
    Yes, I have the 151 GM engine. The temperature gauge itself is factory. The technical service manual troubleshooting guide has one install resistors of various resistances and the gauge works properly when troubleshooting.
     
    81CJ5, Jan 3, 2017
    #5
  6. Jan 3, 2017 at 7:36 AM
    #6
    81CJ5

    #6
    81CJ5 [OP] New Member

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    Pete
    Vehicle:
    1981 CJ-5 4 cyl
    Thanks. This is the part that is the supposed replacement, but the threads are wrong (have to install an adapter bushing) and it acts more like an open/closed switch. I'm about to take my Dremel and cut open the old sensor to see what makes it tick. It's a thermocouple of a sort.
     
    81CJ5, Jan 3, 2017
    #6
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