Hey, I was wondering if anyone could tell me if there's a trick to changing the temperature sensor on a 5.2L V8 Dodge Ram?

My temp gage isn't working - I've checked the wiring by earthing the contact and the needle registers, I've already replaced the thermostat, so the last possible thing it could be is the sensor,but itdoesn't look like an easy thing to change, I can't get anywrench to fit it and don't have any deep enough sockets, and even if I did I think I need an adapter and a long extension to use a ratchet.

I'm pulling my hair out over this tiny little thing, can anybody suggest a solution?

 

I've realised the part I'm looking to replace is the coolant temperature sender unit, rather than the sensor... they're different parts apparently. Anyway, I've ordered one from a parts store, going to try to fit it today.

 

I just saw your original post and was going to suggest that you ohm out the wire first, exspecialy if it is a hard to change sensor. While 90% of the time it is the sensor or guage, what if you hit the Loto this time and it was the wire (even better yet, at a easy repair point)!
As it turned out for you, it sounds like you don't have such a hard component to change and I'm happy for you. Good luck with it, and Happy New Year!

 

I managed to fix it, quite pleased with myself.. good start to the year hehe, I ONLY had to undo the alternator, take off the drive belts and move the a/c compressor in order to get a socket on the bloody thing. Works fine now