Ambient Temperature Switch/sensor For The Auxiliary Heater

[reelman]

As I understand it, the ambient (outside) temperature switch for the auxiliary booster heater on the MK1 operates at 5 degrees or below, whereas the later model kicks in at 10 degrees.

Being a bit of a wimp, when it comes to cold weather, I wonder if it is possible to "upgrade" my MK1 by fitting the later sensor?

I am aware it is behind the n/s wiper arm, and have even managed to find it, but am not sure if it just pulls off, or if it twists off somehow?

I've also seen on this forum somewhere that it's possible to replace the sensor with a 5amp fuse. It seemed to imply that this kicks the booster heater on all the time, regardless of ambient temperature ~ presumably until such time as the coolant water reaches a pre-determined temperature, when the booster shuts down.

All advice gratefully received.

[Mirez]

Correct on all counts, the sensors should be interchangeable as the wiring connector is the same for both. You need to depress the tab to allow it to disconnect.

 

I would be cautious of shorting out that connector (which you'd be doing with a fuse) as yes the heater will come on at all times until the coolent temperature reaches 75*c. The obvious downside is that you'll be using more fuel then you would normally but more importantly in warmer temperatures it'll be firing up and reaching temperature quickly, little start/stop sessions are quite destructive to the operating life of the heaeter.

[reelman]

Thanks for the reply ~ it seems I'm on the right path and just need to wait for it to stop raining now before I tackle this job, along with some others that I have to do on the car ~ hopefully before it starts to snow!!! Thanks again.