This sensor is located on the very front of the intake manifold right behind the alternator. It has one purple wire, and is next to a similar looking thing with two wires. What is it, and how bad is it hurting my truck being broken? Oddly enough, the check engine light isn't on.

Thanks in advance for your help.

 

Pretty sure that is the coolant temp sensor, and yes, you should fix it for numerous reasons if it is broken

 

Coolant temp sensor for the temp gauge, the other sensor (2 wires) should be the sensor the computer uses.

 

yup, you will either run really rich or really lean if it is broken. Probably rich. If it runs lean, you are looking at detonation and breaking your engine.

 

That one is for the gauge. No harm, but you won't know if you're overheating without it.

 

thank you. I will begin repairs immediately

 

Be very careful. I broke it off trying to replace it right after fixing the plenum, and it is PITA to get out. Its too fragile to use an extractor so it will have to be drilled through and re-tapped.

 

Fortunately I didn't have that problem. Was disappointed about having to take the alternator and the compressor off again. Went ahead and replaced the main one also. The plastic was cracked and was hanging on by a thread. Got both done in less than an hour. Hopefully that is the last piece in my ****ty truck puzzle, but ive said that about 10 times now. there's always another problem.