My Ultra-Gauge is reporting a p0116 code: What Gives?

[JasetheDamager]

I recently bought and installed an Ultra-Gauge that is throwing off a p0116 code, so I looked it up on this site and found out what it meant.

P0116: Detection item: Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit
Range/Performance Problem

Trouble area: Cooling system, Engine coolant temp. sensor, Thermostat (water inlet)


A little detail: My truck has 134,000 miles and is running great except for an inconsistent idle, which with the forum's help, I've diagnosed as a problem with the idle air control. I still need to pull it and clean it, and if that doesn't work, I planned on replacing it. I'm not sure if this can have an effect on throwing a P0116 code or not.

I detail in my maintenance/build thread all the work I've done over the last few months. Honestly, any other problems come at a bad time, as I'm trying to save money rather than keep spending it. When I bought the truck 3-4 months ago, the PO showed me a receipt for installation of a new timing belt and water pump. I've since installed a B&M tranny cooler, and topped off my radiator fluid. My radiator appears to be in excellent condition, though this can be misleading. I planned on eventually swapping it out for a new Koyo, but not yet. Am I missing anything else?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[JasetheDamager]

And for further info, the code is inconsistent. I'd say the Ultra-Gauge only throws it 1 out of ever 8-10 times I drive my truck. Don't know if this matters, but it seems strange to me.

 

[Singtoe]

Sounds like a loose plug on your temp sender. Chk all your wires and make sure that they are not loose or corroded.

 

[JasetheDamager]

Sounds like a loose plug on your temp sender. Chk all your wires and make sure that they are not loose or corroded.

Hey Singtoe, thanks a lot for the reply. I've been scanning through your thread regarding the V8 conversion. I'll probably never be so motivated or inclined, but I think you pulled off an awesome project.

I kinda figured it was something simple (fingers crossed), since just about everything else is new or recently replaced. I'll look it over tomorrow morning in daylight.

 

[BrianSD_42]

running great except for an inconsistent idle, which with the forum's help, I've diagnosed as a problem with the idle air control.

I don't think it is related to your IAC issue since I have had the same IAC based rough varying idle for 4+ years now and it hasn't thrown any codes to date.

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