I snapped my coolant temp sensor taking off my old manifolds during my header install. Tomorrow I should have everything completed, but I may not be able to get ahold of a new sensor for a couple days. Is it ok to run the car and possibly drive it a little with this sensor off or will something get screwed up? Also is it possible it will leak, or does it need to be unscrewed to have a possibility to leak? Any help is appreciated, thanks.

 

the sensor on the drivers side cylinder head?? Yes it will leak you need it in there.

Zach Horn

 

it is the sensor on the drivers side, but it snapped in half, and the old piece is still in there. Lets say if it doesn't leak when I start my car (hypotetically)........will I just have no reading on my temp guage, or does it send a signal to the pcm and cause something to screw up?

 

it will leak it it is gone but it won't if you just leave the broken one in it. You can drive the car without it. You just won't be able to see what the temp is.

 

ok I have one more question, when I do go to change it.....how much coolant is gonna come out? I need to be prepared (towels, bucket) so I dont get coolant everywhere. Thanks guys.

 

I just changed mine got it from O-Reileys for under $20. First find the petcock on the passenger side under the car in front. Drain out as much as possible , i got about 3/4 of a gallon. Go in from the bottom of the car on the drivers side its much easier. unscrew it and have the new one handy because its going to leak about 5 or 6 cups. But if you put the new one in fast you can loose alot less. Reconect the wireing and refill the coolant.

 

no reason to drain the radiator since the coolant will come out of the block. Just be quick with it.

 

No need to drain the coolant. Just do and fast and you'll only lose a little bit of fluid. Just have everything prepared and easy to grab and you'll be fine!!
Good luck!