On my WR1, I have an Outside Temp gauge under the DCCD controls on the dash. I had a cunning plan to convert this from Outside Temp (which isn't particularly helpful, as I know if its cold or not by opening the window), to Engine Oil Temp (which is much more useful, and means I don't need any unsightly pods dotted around the car).

Anyone done this, or heard of it being done??

Cheers

 

Sounds like a good mod.

 

Sounds like a recipe for disaster.

Firstly, where will you put the sender, and where is it now, can it be easily removed?
Secondly, how will it be fixed in it's new home?
Thirdly, will it take the temepratures that hot oil will reach? It MUST be able to go from around -10 to +120 degrees, it's VERY doubtful if an outside temperature device could do that.

 

well, plan was to get the usual sender kit that i would use if i was installing an aftermarket oil temp gauge, and rewire it to attach to the temp gauge on the dash. not too worried about the maximum oil temp, more concerned about making sure it is up to temp (around 80 degrees) before giving it the beans, as I currently have no way of knowing when it is warm enough, other than that i drive for about 15mins before putting my foot down. only a thought...

 

and does the cars ecu use any of the info from the out side air temp and adjust the map if it is very hot/ cold etc?

 

yeah thats a fair point. the auto aircon could have a problem with this. although, i guess if I left all the outside temp equipment fitted, but just snipped the wires to the display, that wouldn't affect anything too badly. no worse than if you replaced the dash, but didnt connect up the outside temp display, or if it was broken.

appreciating the comments guys, just trying to work out if it is feasible...

 

If you have some gear...

1. Identify the temperature / voltage ouput for the "new" sensor.
2. Ditto for the original sensor.
3. Build an op-amp circuit to tailor the output of 1 to 2.
4. Still not sure the oE display will read to 99 degress...
5. The ACT sensor is in the MAF housing, so no worries there.

dunx

P.S. Build a normal gauge into a spare air vent, looks very discrete.