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Old 06-10-2013, 05:20 PM   #306
JL1RX7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Pete_89T2 View Post
The problem with doing it that way is your DVM/ohmmeter puts some voltage across the terminals you're trying to measure a resistance across. If it's still connected to the ECU with power applied you could potentially harm the ECU. Also, unless you have a good aftermarket temp gauge, how will you know the water temp when you're taking the resistance measurement?

Assuming you do have a temp gauge, one option would be to run the car until warmed up, then jot down the water temp off the gauge and shut it down. Disconnect the battery. Then disconnect the ECU connectors, and do your resistance measurement across the two ECU harness connector pins that connect to the water temp sensor. That will only get you one test sample though, so you still won't know if the temp sensor works across its full range. IIRC, the FSM gives 3~4 temp points to measure resistance on that temp sensor.

If its a RTD or resistance temp device it should have table somewhere about the resistance readings. So say 1k ohm means 72 degrees. Wouldn't really matter if you got multiple readings as long as you get a good resistance reading.

Also resistance will determine your voltage. So if your TPS has a "dead spot" it won't matter if you're reading voltage or resistance. One you when off, the when on.
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