I am trying to locate the temperature sensor that sends the signal to the gauge in the dashboard. It is the 1 wire unit.

Also, when I replace it with a new one, what is the best way to get access to it, and do I need to apply anti-seize lubricant, or anything like that?

1996 2.3L Ranger, Manual, AC, Power Steering

Location is on the driver side of the block about 2 inches from where it meets the head under the last intake runner . Its right under your oil pressure switch. No need to add anything, if anything thread sealer but if you are using a part like the one shown thread sealer is already on it (the red stuff).

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Automotive Electronics Engineer
2000 XLT 2.5L A/T
Mods:
Explorer OHC
Explorer Autodim Mirrors w/ Autolamps
Explorer Sport White Face Gauges

Really? Then which sensor is in the coolant line passenger front in the engine bay?


I thought that one was the temp sensor sending unit (which I wanted to replace because my needle barely gets off the "C"

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2000 Ford Ranger XL 2.5L 5-speed RWD 3.73 open - 170,000+ miles
Buggman LED 3BL/CARGO, Buggman Stang Dome LED conversion, LED Brake Light conversion, Line-X O.T.R., Air silencer removed
2.3L Headgasket/TIMING/Water Pump replacement guide

What is the best way to access this area...do I need to unbolt stuff to get to it?

<going outside to have a better look>

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2000 Ford Ranger XL 2.5L 5-speed RWD 3.73 open - 170,000+ miles
Buggman LED 3BL/CARGO, Buggman Stang Dome LED conversion, LED Brake Light conversion, Line-X O.T.R., Air silencer removed
2.3L Headgasket/TIMING/Water Pump replacement guide

Going outside to take another look...could you back that photo out a bit more so I can see a little more reference to where I am looking?

I have my truck back together, but I will try to go get a better picture for you.

The sensor is located underneath the lower intake manifold (drivers side).

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2000 Ford Ranger XL 2.5L 5-speed RWD 3.73 open - 170,000+ miles
Buggman LED 3BL/CARGO, Buggman Stang Dome LED conversion, LED Brake Light conversion, Line-X O.T.R., Air silencer removed
2.3L Headgasket/TIMING/Water Pump replacement guide

Is it better to try and access it from above or under the truck?

Here, I shot a video from underneath my vehicle for you. It is almost directly below the oil pressure sending unit. (which is the one at the top of your motor, on the drivers side, close to the firewall)




Video's still being processed by youtube... give it a minute.

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2000 Ford Ranger XL 2.5L 5-speed RWD 3.73 open - 170,000+ miles
Buggman LED 3BL/CARGO, Buggman Stang Dome LED conversion, LED Brake Light conversion, Line-X O.T.R., Air silencer removed
2.3L Headgasket/TIMING/Water Pump replacement guide

Is it located underneath where the red arrow is pointing?
This is taken from the driver side of the vehicle.

Watch my video... It's near the oil filter, so yes, it is right around where your arrow is.

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2000 Ford Ranger XL 2.5L 5-speed RWD 3.73 open - 170,000+ miles
Buggman LED 3BL/CARGO, Buggman Stang Dome LED conversion, LED Brake Light conversion, Line-X O.T.R., Air silencer removed
2.3L Headgasket/TIMING/Water Pump replacement guide

Thanks for the video...what would you recommend to be the easiest route to access it?

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You rock man!
I was able to slide my portly self underneath from the front of the truck and some how or another manage to remove and install the new one!

If you are ever in Phoenix I'll buy you a beer!

Thank you!

Glad I could help!

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2000 Ford Ranger XL 2.5L 5-speed RWD 3.73 open - 170,000+ miles
Buggman LED 3BL/CARGO, Buggman Stang Dome LED conversion, LED Brake Light conversion, Line-X O.T.R., Air silencer removed
2.3L Headgasket/TIMING/Water Pump replacement guide