Part 1 of 2

Code Chart 14:

ECT Sensor Circuit:

CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION:
The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor utilizes a thermistor that controls the signal voltage to the ECM. The ECM applies a voltage on circuit 410 to the sensor. When the engine is cold, the sensor (thermistor) resistance is high, therefore the ECM will sense a high signal voltage. As the engine warms, the sensor resistance becomes less and the voltage drops. At normal engine operating temperature, the voltage will measure about 1.5 to 2.0 volts at ECM terminal "B10." The Engine coolant temperature sensor is one of the inputs used to control the following:

^ Fuel Delivery.
^ Ignition Control (IC).
^ Cooling Fan.
^ Idle Air Control (IAC).
^ Torque Converter Clutch (TCC).

A separate thermistor within the ECT sensor provides a signal to the coolant temperature gauge located in the instrument panel.

TEST DESCRIPTION: The numbers below refer to circled numbers on the diagnostic chart.

1. A DTC 14 will set if:

^ The engine has been running for at least 2 minutes.
^ Signal voltage indicates a coolant temperature below -30°C (-22°F).
OR
^ Signal voltage indicates coolant temperature above 144°C (291°F).

2. If the ECM recognizes the grounded circuit (low voltage) and displays a high temperature; the ECM and wiring are OK.

3. This test will determine if there is a wiring problem or a faulty ECM. If CKT 452 is open, there may also be other DTC's stored.

DIAGNOSTIC AIDS:

^ A "Scan" tool displays engine temperature in degrees Celsius. After engine the is started, the temperature should rise steadily to about 90°C (194°F) then stabilize when thermostat opens.
^ If the engine has been allowed to cool to ambient temperature, coolant temperature and Intake Air Temperature (IAT) may be checked with a "Scan" tool. The readings should be close to each other.
^ When DTC 14 is set, the ECM will turn "ON" the engine cooling fan.
^ If a DTC 14 is intermittent, Testing and Inspection
^ If a DTC 14 is intermittent of a hard start symptoms present, check engine coolant temperature displayed would be within 5 degrees of the ambient. If not, check the ECT sensor using the Diagnostic Aids on the next part. If sensor is OK, check connections. If connections at sensor and ECM are OK, replace ECM.