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DISCUSSION => Electrical => Topic started by: tjts1 on June 10, 2007, 11:32:53 PM

Title: E36 temp switch
Post by: tjts1 on June 10, 2007, 11:32:53 PM

Is anybody here successfully using an 80/88C E36 temp switch (used on 92-97 M42 and M44) to activate the aux fan or an E-fan conversion? I searched and the only person that tried to use this switch found that it functioned more like a temp sensor with variable resistance instead of a temp switch. So is it a standard temp switch that can be swapped into our cars or something else all together. I'm just trying to find a clear answer before I buy it. I have my Efan conversion working but the 91/98C switch seems a bit high for the single fan on this car.
Thanks

Title: E36 temp switch
Post by: m44power on June 11, 2007, 11:13:12 AM

its just a switch not variable resistance

Title: E36 temp switch
Post by: Wise Old Dog on June 11, 2007, 05:50:11 PM

I bought the 2 speed  bavauto switch, and found that it works as variable resistance switch. The hotter the coolant gets, the less resistance there is. I could not get it to function properly. I then installed the spal PWM fan controler, and it works very well. Totally adjustable, $75. IMO that is the way to go, as it gets it's signal from the cylinder head thermo sensor for the ecu.

Title: E36 temp switch
Post by: tjts1 on June 12, 2007, 02:58:26 AM

Quote from: Wise Old Dog;27576

I bought the 2 speed  bavauto switch, and found that it works as variable resistance switch. The hotter the coolant gets, the less resistance there is. I could not get it to function properly. I then installed the spal PWM fan controler, and it works very well. Totally adjustable, $75. IMO that is the way to go, as it gets it's signal from the cylinder head thermo sensor for the ecu.

Do you have a link or part number to the specific switch you bought? I think there was more than one type of switch available depending on model year. Not sure. I was reading your old post when I came across the information. Thanks for the heads up. It doesn't seem like anybody else has first hand experience with this switch.

Title: E36 temp switch
Post by: Wise Old Dog on June 12, 2007, 05:44:28 AM

Part #61 31 8 361 787 I have 2 of them I don't need. Brand new. If you decide to go that route, let me know. I'll sell them for $20 ea.

Title: E36 temp switch
Post by: tjts1 on June 26, 2007, 12:31:23 AM

Well i bought the temp switch in question and surprise, it works as advertised. Its a on off switch at 80/88C. No variable resistance. This means its a direct replacement for our cars.