While I am in there
 

I am in the process of replacing both my speed and reference sensor for an 87 Carrera and based on the condition, I believe the CHT sensor may be original. I have not had any driving issues (other than the no start issue I am trying to resolve). Car has 111k miles and since I have the grommet out where the sensor wires pass into the engine bay, I wonder if I should change the CHT out as well.

Also, the plastic connector side of the CHT in the engine bay has broken. I assume this is part of a larger wiring harness and not easily replaceable.

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1631023802.jpg

Check availability of the head sensor.
The reference sensors are available as BMW parts at a good savings
Just use Bosch, other brands are available but…
Bruce

Thanks Bruce. I bought the BMW sensors and have them installed. The Porsche brand CHT is available--there is an off brand for less than half but I would probably stick with the Porsche/Bosch.

Nothing good has ever come from that phrase.

I know that feeling hence the hesitation. The plastic was pretty brittle but I hate to change it out. Getting the plug on the firewall out was a little bit of a PITA but could be done again--although I sacrificed the speed and ref sensors by cutting them and giving the plug a little more flexibility.

I am more concerned about the broken connector in the pic--any solutions to this?

if its the single wire CHT i would definitely change it

good question. I will check.

I think this connector can be replaced. It looks like a Bosch standard connector fitted on other cars and makes. If you can read the Bosch part number stamped on it, google it.

Thanks for the input on the Bosch connector. Turns out the CHT is a two wire. Car is an 87 so I assume this was replaced at some point in its life? My plan is to button up the speed and ref sensor install and leave the CHT as is.

I will look into the Bosch connector to see if there is a part number. I need to invest in a magnifying glass--my readers arent doing the trick.

I had to chuckle at your comment. It is probably the most expensive phrase I've ever said.

Replaced my single lead original CHT with the URO version - clocked about 1500 hard-driven miles on it so far with no hiccups *knock on wood*

Not true!

The head temp sensor is a perfect example of "while I am in there" smart move. Another is replacing the pilot bearing while doing a clutch.

That simple phrase does indeed have some great benefits.

"While I am in there" than get really expensive in a transmission or engine rebuild.

Yes - while placing the starter ring.. why not do the clutch, pivot shaft and TOB/etc. Throw in a new starter as well. Who wants to pull the motor and trans out again?

i will be the first to admit, i did not " throw in a clutch" while i had the engine out..
i measured wear limit spec new and my wear , and calculated it will be due in about 43 years,

:)

that was about 5 years ago and still cruising.

My reply was a reference to the paths that many take after saying "while I'm in there" that attempt to "improve" or add more hp, not perform basic maintenance by replacing the likes of a pilot bushing. I hope no one is that cheap or such a complete hack to not change consumables while doing a clutch.

I understand. My top end engine rebuild had enough "while we are in there" moments it was a total rebuild. In the end, I am real happy we did a full rebuild, and I love my engine now. So I fully understand the pain of that simple phrase.