I got a 1999 Ram 5.2L and the last couple of days my temp gauge has has been reading alot cooler than normal and the truck started smelling like it's running really rich. Now I'm kind of confused. Is there a sensor for the gauge and a separate sensor that talks to the PCM? Or, are the both combined in the same sensor behind the altenator? Thanks in advance!

 

There should be 2 separate sensors, if I'm not confused. If its running cooler then normal, it could be your stat stuck open.

 

I'll go check the thermostat first, I put in a new one(195*) a couple months ago when I got a new radiator. I hate taking out the thermostat, PITA.

 

Grind the tab on the housing so that next time it it'll be easier.

 

+1 on that. I didn't do it last time, so I did grind it off this time. The old stat looked good but I went ahead and went to Advance and got a new Stant Superstat 195*. Hopefully that's the problem. Thanks!

 

Just so you know, a 99 only uses the one sensor for both the gauge and pcm.

 

Thanks Zman17, I think I'll change the temp sensor then, if the new t-stat doesn't change anything.

 

I'd do that too. That sensor doesn't go bad all that often like the Tstat.

 

Thanks for clearing that up Zman. Last thing I wanna do is give out bad info. I know my 97 has two. What year did they go to one?

 

Maybe some late 97's. But for the most part 98 and up.