Thunderbird V6-232 3.8L SC (1989)
Technical Service Bulletin # 902310
Date: 901107
Temperature Gauge - Not Functioning Correctly
Article No. 90-23-10
GAUGE - TEMPERATURE - INOPERATIVE - 3.8L SUPERCHARGED ENGINES
FORD:
1989-91 THUNDERBIRD
LINCOLN-MERCURY: 1989-91 COUGAR
ISSUE:
The temperature gauge may be inoperative or not functioning correctly, This occurs because the coolant temperature sender assembly is
improperly grounded or damaged.
ACTION:
Check to see if the coolant temperature sender is damaged or not properly grounded. If necessary, replace the sender assembly (10884).
Refer to the following procedure for service details.
Sender Ground Continuity & Damage Inspection
Figure 1
1.
Remove one (1) of the bolts that attaches the water outlet connection assembly (8594) to the intake manifold, Figure 1.
2.
Remove the paint from under the bolt on the water outlet connection assembly to assure good grounding continuity.
3.
Re-install the bolt. Tighten it to 15-22 lb.ft. (20-30 N-m).
4.
Run the engine and check for coolant leaks.
5.
If the coolant temperature gauge does not function properly, proceed to Step # 6.
6.
Remove the water coolant temperature sender from the water outlet connection assembly.
7.
Check the bulb end of the water coolant for damage.
If the sending unit is not damaged, proceed to the following Undamaged Sending Unit Service Procedure.
If the sending unit is damaged, proceed to Damaged Sending Unit Service Procedure of this article.
Undamaged Sending Unit Service Procedure
1.
Remove the paint from the first three (3) threads of the hole in which the sender was installed. The suggested method of removing the paint is to
use a wire brush or any other suitable means that will not damage the threads.
CAUTION:
DO NOT USE A TAP TO REMOVE PAINT.
2.
Re-install the sender. Tighten it to 8-15 lb.ft. (10-20 N-m).
