Know a thing or two about auto electrial? Help me out.

ethan_hanus · 10-27-2010, 09:22 PM

Ok, so I drive a 1994 Chevy silverado 1500 2wd with a 350 TBI motor, and I'm trying to replace the coolant temp sensor. Now every where I look they try and sell me this 2 pin sensor, problem is, the one on my truck is a 1 pin sensor. Since I can't find a replacement 1 pin sensor, I'm going with the 2 pin sensor, but I have to figure out what the second pin is for. I think it's for ground, so I think I can just run the second pin to a ground on the engine. I wanted a second opinion before I do this, cause these stupid parts may be small, but are expensive.

Any thoughts?

Bushman · 10-28-2010, 10:00 AM

Your Chevy has three possible Coolant Temp Switch / Sensors.
1.) One for the computer. OEM Part # 15326386 @ $31.42 A 2 wire connector with a black and a yellow wire.
This one is located on the intake manifold next to the thermostat housing. (where your upper radiator hose connects to your engine)
2.) One for the gauge. OEM Part # 25037332 @ $30.86 Appears to be a 2 wire connector as well.
This one is located on top of your engine, right side, up front.
3.) Auxilliary cooling fan switch. (your vehicle may or may not have one of these) I couldn't find the part # for it.
But if it has one it is located on the right side of engine below the head on the block.

Hope this helps...

Terry...

ethan_hanus · 10-28-2010, 08:23 PM

Thanks Terry, I figured it out this morning and replaced both of them with the right parts, and it works now. Only problem I'm having now is finding a replacement pigtail for the temp switch, a 1 pin connector, apparently nobody makes them anymore, at least nobody carries them in stock anywhere in Texas, or anywhere else for that matter.

Bushman · 10-28-2010, 10:53 PM

Generally a one pin sensor has kind of a small bolt for a pin. If your connector is just loose, squeeze it gently with some pliers so it will be a tighter grip on the pin.
if you're looking for a single pin connector but can't find one, a cigarrette lighter receptical replacement usually has one on back.

ethan_hanus · 10-29-2010, 10:45 AM

Well, I need a new one cause I filed down the original so it would fit into that two pin sensor, and when that didn't work I was pretty much screwed. But, it still fits into the new switch, loosely, but fits, I made it stay in by shrinking a heat shrink tube on it, but a new one would prolly be best.

Bushman · 10-31-2010, 01:25 PM

Called the local parts house and they couldn't find one either. They used to list it, thay are used on old style ford coils, ford starter solenoids, on lots of things.
If I were you, a trip to the junk yard would be in order, and grab two while you're there..