Testing Temperature Sensor

[Oldsaltydog]

Thanks to SELDONT's help, I have found the temperature sensor and have tested the wiring harness and the horn -- and it works. My next project is to make sure that the sensor itself is operational. Other then taking it down to my friendly ($$$ ) Mercury dealer, do you have any suggestions? One book I have looked at suggests testing it in hot oil in the kitchen and using an ohmmeter, but I have never been handy with pots and pans. Any other options? Heaven forbid, how about putting my handy-dandy Bic lighter under it for a short while and see what happens -- other than ruining a perfectly good sensor??? Please advise about your efforts and experiences.

 

[scotiany]

Re: Testing Temperature Sensor

Here's what Seloc manual says<br />Disconnect the 2 horn leads at their nearest quick disconnect fitting. Obtain a 12 volt battery.Using a jumper lead ,if necessary, connect one horn lead to the neg battery terminal. Using a jumper lead if necessary, momentarily make contact with the other horn lead to the positive battery terminal. As soon as the lead makes contact with the positive battery terminal, the horn should sound. If the horn is silent, or the sound emitted does not capture the helmsperson's attention immediately , the horn should be replaced. Service or adjustment is not possible.

 

[seldont]

Re: Testing Temperature Sensor

Not sure on how to test the sensor itself as to whether or not it makes connection to ground if your engine were to get hot. It would have to be removed to test it in hot oil or water but I would suspect that may be the safest way. I am glad to hear the rest of it worked well. Have fun boating and be safe!!! Cheers.....Seldon

 

[eurolarva]

Re: Testing Temperature Sensor

Fire is probably not the best way to test it. A heat gun for removing paint might be a better solution. They cost about 30 bucks at home depot. Not sure how you will test the temperature but there should be a big jump with the ohm meter from hot to cold. If you do this start with the low setting on the heat gun. High gets around 900 degrees.

 

[Brooksyde]

Re: Testing Temperature Sensor

I have detailed how to test you sensor in response to you question on the alarm. I did it and it was not difficult, it only needs a large jam jar and a kettle of boiling water. Have a go and let me know how you get on!

 

[Oldsaltydog]

Re: Testing Temperature Sensor

Thanks for all the help. I have tested the circuit by gounding it and a high-pitched alarm went off. Next, I suspended the sender in a pot of oil, heated it, and at the proper temperature, the circuit closed, according to my ohmmeter, ready to send a signal. Now I feel more secure that I will be warned before things get too hot at the stern.