I know this is for the pcm correct? I think i need to replace mine, question is, if it was unplugged or not working, would this keep my car from starting in sub 32 weather? What else does it do, and what is the part number for it. Thanks guys

 

Don't know the part # but yes it tells the pcm the coolant temp. I believe that it has less resistance with heat so if the circuit is open the pcm uses the min temp (-40) for it's fuel calculation, which isn't good- although whether it realizes it and uses some other default value I don't know. But yes it can cause driveability issues, some people have even fixed starting problems by replacing theirs. The coolant temp sensor (and almost every other sensor) are used to control injector pulsewidth for a proper air/fuel ratio, minimizing emissions, and secondly, maximizing performance.

 

1993-1997 coolant temperature sensor for pcm
AC-Delco# 213-310
GM Part number - 15326386

 

Okay, only problem is when I cross reference that number at my local Autozone, it comes up SU-109. Which is the same sensor that is in the cylinder head. A oval connector. The harness for the one in my waterpump is round. I can see how the sensor gets f-ed up, that stupid bellow tube coming down from the intake elbow sits almost right against it. Heat and time make the plastic connector part brittle, and it breaks off. All thats left of my sensor is just the two prongs sticking out. So are they supposed to be the same sensor or what? Why is the harness round then?

 

Can't help you with what AZ says, but they are not the same sensor.

 

Okay, good I actually went to your part #'s page shoebox, and wrote down the two numbers for the sensors. They must have them mixed up or something. Its not a Gm only part right?

 

It should not be a GM only part, but the numbers on my page are GM or AC-Delco part numbers.

 

I've replaced mine before. I got mine from Advance Auto. Someone at the parts store should be able to help you out, it's not the only car with two coolant temp sensors.

 

Ok I fixed it. That was the correct part number. I went out there to look closer and realized that the plastic part that broke off of the sensor was still fastened to the harness. Which made the harness look like it had a round connection. I pried it off and viola, screwed the new sensor in and it started right up. It also seemed to cure the whole having to rev it up after I first start it to get it to hold an idle. All of this seems to only apply when its freezing cold out but still, it still kept it from starting. Thanks for the help.