I have a problem with the temp guage on my escort, it goes straight up to the top when i start the engine, but if i take the earth cable off it drops to zero, what are the possible solutions?

any help much appreciated.

 

Possibly a fault with the temp gauge itself?

 

Probably a fucked sensor matey, though could be wiring. Basically, the temperature sensor is a variable resistor IIRC. As the temperature increases, it offers more or less (cant remember which way round) resistance, which gives the temp gauge the reading. If it is going off the scale, it sounds kinda like a short.

JJ

 

Likely sensor fault.
tabetha

 

have you got the polarities the right way round. does the temp guage work like normal when you are driving?

make sure the earth and live havent been mixed, either in the guage or the sensor!

 

The sensor is as ford left it, I have a new one to put in when i bought a new thermostat the other week,

as for when im driving, it doesnt move it just shoots straight up then sits there until i either turn of the ignition or disconnect the earth, if its faulty wiring, how far does the wire go?

 

mine did this after blowing the head gasket, canged the sensor and was fine

 

Mine was just a dodgy earth when it did it

 

Sure it was the right sensor u changed? Not the Blue ECU one but the stubby one which fits in under the brown and blue ECU sensors?

 

P.S they are a total WANKER to change...

Hope you've got small hands!

 

I havent changed it yet, but as far as i can see it only has one sensor into the thermostat housing, and the brown earth wire that goes onto the side of the head.