What is this? (2 pics)

ralphcap · Post by **ralphcap** » Tue May 31, 2011 10:16 am

While checking some fluid levels in my '81 FI Spider I discoverd this wire and connector lying on the driver's side unattached. I haven't been able to determine where it connects. What is it and where does it plug in?

rlux4 · Post by **rlux4** » Tue May 31, 2011 11:39 am

Looks like the connector for your thermo-time switch. The switch is under the intake manifold, between the #2 and 3 cylinders. It's kind of hard to see, look behind the vapor trap at about the 2:00 position. It's not critical, it only comes into play on cold starts to send a signal to the cold start valve for a few seconds on start up. So if you're in a warm clime where you are you're good until the weather turns cold. Then you'll find it easier to keep the car running smoother on ititial start up.
Ron

FiatMac · Post by **FiatMac** » Tue May 31, 2011 11:40 am

There is a coolant temperature sensor in the bottom center of the intake manifold flange up next to the engine. Out of sight and a pain to get to. I am guessing that is where it belongs.

rlux4 · Post by **rlux4** » Tue May 31, 2011 11:50 am

The coolant temp sensor is in the coolant T at the front of the head. It is a critical component, sending coolant temp info to the ECU. The thermo-time switch also reacts to coolant temperature, but only comes into play in cold conditions. Without it though, it is possible that the cold start valve may be open with no control to shut it off, causing a rich running condition.
Ron

FiatMac · Post by **FiatMac** » Tue May 31, 2011 2:57 pm

You are right, Ron! I was talking about the Thermo Time Switch but called it a coolant sensor because that is the temperature it is sensing. Right sensor, wrong name. My bad!

rlux4 · Post by **rlux4** » Tue May 31, 2011 3:58 pm

Glad we got that cleared up!

I was just trying to eliminate as much confusion as possible, hope I didn't offend.
I'm considered anal on the job, I insist that each thing be called by it's correct name. I'm a general contractor and I've seen too many mistakes and too much time wasted when the correct term isn't used.
Ron

FiatMac · Post by **FiatMac** » Tue May 31, 2011 6:06 pm

Ron,
No offense taken. I should have looked it up in my manual.

ralphcap · Post by **ralphcap** » Tue May 31, 2011 7:32 pm

Wow is this a great forum or what? Don't think I'll have to worry about cold starts for the next seven months but it's connected. Thanks Ron!

rlux4 · Post by **rlux4** » Tue May 31, 2011 10:11 pm

That must have been fun getting it connected!
You're welcome, thanks for letting us know.
Ron

What is this? (2 pics)

What is this? (2 pics)

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Re: What is this? (2 pics)