just done a simple mod to add engine temp and alert into cluster. so happy with the result

costs me about $120 and a few hours working. i bought it from http://www.ebay.com/itm/131760063134?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

 

pretty neat but i would like to know actual water temperature and not just the temperature of the block. still a good idea though.

 

thanks. you are right, the block temperature measurement may not be precise compared to that of the water temp sensor, but in terms of monitoring and alert, it is way better than the stock gauge. I think the difference is acceptable.

I will compare its readings with temp sensor's when it becomes possible.

 

you can obtain an OBDII reader/monitor/gauge which can tell you engine parameters in real time, like coolant temp, engine speed, vehicle speed, load etc. there are LOTS of different monitor gauges out there, but probably cost much more than what you paid.

 

Timmy, an OBDII scanner is not OK for his car.

 

that's correct Yamae, but i am able to use this device to get some of the numbers. just to check the difference of the watchdog readings and sensor

 

i'm curious, is there some negative effect on running a scanner while driving?

i have buddy running one on his 1UZ, though it's in an 85 celica so he used the OBD port for RPM, speedo, voltage, and temperature readings.

 

those are available in obd1 engines, this is one of the ways I have used

 

There would be no problems always running a scanner, just the hassle of turning it on and selecting the pages you want.

 

update comparison between watchdog metal temp and engine temp sensor. the temperature readings were exactly the same from 33 to about 55 degree C (warm up) but then they started to be different from that point up. maximum (and most of the time) the readings of watch dog were about 8 degree C lower than that of the engine ECT (read by TOYOBD1)

anyone suggest a reason, and watch dog temp sensor installed location? thanks

 

this is where I installed the sensor now

 

does the LS have an oil temperature sensor? the PID for oil temperature never becomes active on any of my OBD-II apps

 

the one he was using is for OBDII and his motor is a 95-97 model, pre-VVTi, with the stock ECU.

 

not as far as I know.

 

damn i guess it's just such a tank it doesn't matter what the oil temperature is lol

but for real how can it not have one? how would it know if the oil is getting too hot? it's an LS 400 so not that it would though haha