Water temp gauge accuracy

[andy oliver]

How accurate is the standard water temp gauge?Mine shows a steady 80-85C but the Minister article in Low Flying recommends an ideal operating temp. of 70-75C.Is this gauge error or am I running hot or what?

[R2D2]

I had serious overheating problems with two different engines and I was quite worried as the temperature sensor and temperature gauge were common to both engines.

 

I finally checked the gauge and sensor with a hotplate and a calibrated electronic thermometer.I put a small hot plate in the engine bay so that I used the cars wiring and power supply to the electrics.

 

The gauge and sensor were surprisingly accurate within the limits of the resolution of the temperature gauge because it is quite difficult to read to within a couple of degrees.

 

I think it would be rash to assume that another sensor, gauge and electrical system would be the same and if you are as worried as I was it is certainly worth the trouble for peace of mind.

 

Most multimeters have a temperature probe if you can't get hold of an electronic thermometer.

[CHRIS CLARK]

I had this conversation with Mike Bees a while back. He said that his ECU read 10* higher than his gauge showed! Guess this is down to where the sensor is placed.