How to replace engine coolant temp sensor???

[v8volvo]

I'm working on a Subie that is not my own (actually, quite a pleasant and rare beast, a '95 Legacy LSi wagon). It has the EJ22 and 4EAT automatic tranny and AWD. One time it threw an ECT (engine coolant temp) sensor code. We cleared it and it has not recurred but we have a new sensor to install just to be sure there is no trouble. Problem is, it looks like an impossible job!

 

As far as I can tell, this sensor resides in a coolant pipe that runs from the front of the engine (where the upper radiator hose attaches) to the back, via a route right under the intake manifold. This sensor seems to be situated in the side of the aluminum pipe, approximately under the idle air control valve (to the left of and below the throttle body). As far as I can tell, the only way to do the job cleanly and properly would be to remove the intake manifold. Anyone have any ideas, a better way to do it, cautions, advice? I'd appreciate any help! If it is more than a few hours of work I think we'll forget about it and leave well enough alone, but if it is not too hard we'd just as soon throw it in, since we do already have it.

 

Thanks in advance!

[avk]

No need to remove the intake. Disconnect a few hoses and move out of the way, unbolt the bracket holding engine wire harness connectors to the bellhousing so you can move the wires, and maybe disconnect the intake duct from the throttle body to get more room. Then you'll reach the sensor with a 19 mm deep socket. Don't let ratchet handle hit the TPS sensor.

[Setright]

Are you sure? On my admittedly older 1990 EJ22 is was facing the front and could pulled out directly.

 

Be aware that there are two sensors, one for the dash, one for the ECU. Even so, the should live right next to eachother.

[frag]

V8volvo: that's where it is alright and like avk said, no need to remove the intake manifold.

Setright, it's different on my 96 and I suspect it's the same on a 95. Also, for those model years there is only one sensor.