Changing Coolant Temp sensor

[applecran]

Hey guys,

This may be a stupid question, but i'm having a bitch of a time getting the coolant temp sensor out.  Please tell me I can do this without removing the intake.

Any tips?

Thanks.

[bmwpower]

You can do it without removing the intake for sure.  You can also remove it without draining any coolant.  Make sure your coolant is completely cold, just unscrew the sensor.  No coolant should come out due to suction.

If it's stuck, spray some Liquid Wrench or similar on it and let it sit overnight.

[applecran]

thanks I'll try the liquid wrench.  

My problem is I can't seem to get a rench or blyers on the metal part, only the pastic part of the sensor, and I don't want to break it in there...

[nomad]

Just remove the upper portion of the intake manifold only. This will give you some more working room. Then again, you may need to invest in some different tools to reach back there.

[bmwpower]

thanks I'll try the liquid wrench.  

My problem is I can't seem to get a rench or blyers on the metal part, only the pastic part of the sensor, and I don't want to break it in there...

Then you need a bigger socket (deep) or a wrench.  I know I used a socket when I did mine last time.  I may have used a universal, too, because of the angle.

[oldtimer]

Use the new one as a sample of the size "deep socket you will need a "universal" joint drive with it.  One you break it loose you should be able to remove it with your fingers.  that's how I removed mine when I was having temp guage fluactuation problem.  To finish it of to make sure it is tight I used a box racheting wrench.

[applecran]

Thanks guys.  I have some deep sockets, I'll try that.

[applecran]

Thanks guys for the help, this was really easy.

For anyone else who stumbles upon this thread.

You need:

19mm deep socket
extension
universal joint

That is it.  Not sure how I could not figure this out on my own, althought it was almost 1am when I tried.