G 1500 1/2 Ton Van V6-4.3L VIN W (1997)
Coolant Temperature Sensor/Switch (For Computer): Description and Operation
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor
DESCRIPTION
The engine coolant temperature sensor is a thermistor (a resistor which changes value based on temperature) mounted in the engine coolant passage. Low
coolant temperature produces a high resistance 100,000 ohms at -40°C (-40°F) while high temperature causes low resistance 70 ohms at 130°C (266°F).
OPERATION
The VCM supplies a 5 volt signal to the engine coolant temperature sensor through a resistor in the VCM and measures the voltage. The voltage will be
high when the engine is cold. The voltage will be low when the engine is hot. By measuring the voltage, the VCM calculates the engine coolant
temperature. Engine coolant temperature affects most systems the VCM controls.
The scan tool displays engine coolant temperature in degrees. After engine start-up, the temperature should rise steadily to about 9O°C (194°F) then
stabilize when thermostat opens. If the engine has not been run for several hours (overnight), the engine coolant temperature and intake air temperature
displays should be close to each other. When the VCM detects a malfunction in the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit, the following
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)s will set:
^
DTC P0117 circuit low.
^
DTC P0118 circuit high.
^
DTC P0125 excessive time to Closed Loop.
^
DTC P1114 circuit intermittent low.
^
DTC P1115 circuit intermittent high.
The above DTCs contain a table to check for sensor resistance values relative to temperature. Refer to Specifications. See: Computers and Control
Systems/Specifications
