Coolant Temp Sensor-How To

[BeNiceToSpiders]

Greetings,

My '81 won't start when the engine is warm. (When the engine cools down for about 20 minutes, it starts on the first crank.)

From previous help from this forum (thanks guys), I think I have narrowed down the problem to the Coolant Temp Sensor in the FI system.

Before ordering the part from IAP, I've got a couple of quick questions:
1) Can I easily install this part myself with simple tools? (It looks like all you would have to do is unscrew the hex nut, screw in the new sensor and attach the connector.) Is there more to it than that? (i.e. do I need to have a mechanic install this part)

2)I've read on other posts that the connector can be finicky. Should I purchase a new connector as well while I'm at it.

Thanks so much for all the help,



p.s. If anyone knows a better place to get parts like this, I'd be interested in that as well. Thanks again.

[So Cal Mark]

you will lose some coolant when you replace the switch, make sure there isn't any pressure on the cooling system when you remove it. The connectors seem to be a problem more often than the sensor, so I'd replace it if it isnt pristine. IAP is probably as good a source as the other vendors

[dnudelman]

you can get a better style connector out of a later model volvo (junk yard). They have a squeeze type fasterner rather than that spring wire that goes flying sometimes.

[So Cal Mark]

I have those improved connector pigtails in stock, brand new.