aftermarket coolant temp probe optimal location
 

hey, i've got an electronic coolant temp probe and was wondering where i can get the most accurate coolant temps for the engine. i was thinking of "T"ing into the coolant line that runs from the rear iron after the thremo wax (well where the thermowax would be) and to the bac then too the thermal/waterpump housing. looking at a few coolant diagrams shows the hottest part being right where that line dumps back into the water pump housing. there is also a coolant temp sensor that is next to the fitting for that water line. the factory temp gauge is basicaly useless so i was thinking of replacing that sensor with the aftermarket probe but i dont know if that is the probe that sends information to the gauge or the ECU (or posibly both). I'm just trying to find the point where i can get the mosty accurate temps out of my gauge reflecting current engine operational temp.

thanks

I put mine where you suggested as I'm not really interested in water temps until after it has reached normal operating temps.

But the concensus seems to prefer using the existing access at the freeze plug behind the AC bracket in the front iron, drain plug in the center iron, or removing the water pump housing and drilling and taping for the sensor.

The freeze plug location is a very good location for installing a Zinc sacrifical anode to help prevent electrolisis issues my irons. So that's what I did.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v6...C/DSC00402.jpg

i'll most likely put it where it is in the second picture, it seems like that would see the hottest water temps (aside from coming out of the turbocharger) and would have the fastest coolant changes depending on engine operating condition.