[Mrmerlin]

swapping out the sensor is a good idea, they do go bad,

Note that there are 2 different sized connectors on the wires,
it is a good idea to swap in new connectors,solder them on.
radio shack has the both sizes of the female connectors.

NOTE also inspect the 14 pin connector and the engine side harness wires for shedding insulation the harness could be shorting .
spray deoxit onto all of the connections