1996 Jeep Cherokee adding temperature guage

GARYRZ

MEMBER
1996 JEEP CHEROKEE
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
90,000 MILES

When adding aftermarket temp guage to the 4.0L 6 cylinder ---- can't find a place to install the probe for the temp guage without impacting the temperature sensor for the engine control. The other sender for the temp light is too small to fit the guage probe.
Thought about using the drain plug in the block --- would that work? If yes, how do I get the plug out?

5 Replies

ZACKMAN

MECHANIC
4,202 POSTS

If your probe is too small for the drain hole, go to your local parts or home improvement store and find a suitable adapter. Bring both the plug and the probe. Tell them that you need to install the probe into the drain hole. If for example your probe diameter is 5/16" and the drain plug is 1/2". They will find you a hollow adapter measuring 1/2" outside thread with 5/16 inside thread. Make sure you use Teflon tape on the threads prior to installation.

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Tuesday, February 10th, 2009 AT 8:41 PM

GARYRZ

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3 POSTS

You didn't give any input on removing the plug. Is there a special tool --- or can I just drill thru and use a large extractor?

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Tuesday, February 10th, 2009 AT 11:29 PM

ZACKMAN

MECHANIC
4,202 POSTS

I didn't think I needed to. It looks like an oil drain plug, I think you will need to use 19mm socket to remove. The hole is already threaded, that is why I told you to get an adapter for the probe. Unless if the probe is much larger that the hole itself, then you will need to drill and extract.

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Wednesday, February 11th, 2009 AT 12:09 AM

GARYRZ

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3 POSTS

Sorry. The plug is round and threaded but has a recessed center --- more or less square ---- have to stick something into it to remove. 3/8 drive is too big --- that's why we tried a 5/16" piece of stainless keystock --- but can't get enough leverage to break it loose. I will try drilling it so I can get an extractor into it --- and remove it that way. No problem on getting the adaptors --- think I have what I need --- just going crazy on trying to get it out. Was not comfortable drilling because of possibility of getting shavings inside --- but guess it is just in the water jacket so should not create a problem. Thanks for your help ---

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Wednesday, February 11th, 2009 AT 12:42 AM

ZACKMAN