Where is the Engine coolant temp sensor on 2003 Tacoma

Hello Tacoma people,
I need help locating the ECT sensor on a 2003 Tacoma
Thank you for your help !!!

 

What engine?

 

Replaced mine this week (3.4 V6).
On the 3.4 it's located behind the upper radiator hose.
You just about need a flashlight to see it. You have to remove the front fuel rail bolt to access it.
You'll need a deep socket 19mm to remove the sensor. When you remove the old one, be sure to keep the brass washer. You'll need to use it on the new one.

 

Why did you replace it? Stop working?

 

Hey Anthony...No, just some preventive maintenance. I'm in the process of replacing my radiator (crack developed below radiator cap where it meets the metal), hoses, & thermostat. Since I have it all apart, the sensor is pretty easy to access. Replaced with a Toyota one for about $37.

 

I have a new engine I'm getting ready to install so I was wondering if these had a tendency to fail. Do you need to remove the fuel rail? It sounds pretty easy since most of my engine is tore down.

 

Not to sure about them failing, but I'm glad I replaced it because the plastic connector was brittle and practically broke off when I removed it. I had a '97 Camry 4 cyl and the coolant sensor on it threw a check engine light when it failed.
You're right, it's an easy job. When you remove the fuel rail bolt there are two washers. The fsm states to replace with new ones so I got those from the Dealership.

 

Anthony good luck with your build man!

 

Two washers on the fuel rail? This is the sensor?

 

Thanks man - it's coming along slowly but surely

 

Yes, that's it.
Yeah there is a washer on the front and back of bolt. You might can just remove that one side and pivot it up, but I removed both so I had to get 4 washers.
Very little fuel came out.

 

Got it - so you're removing the cross over tube on the fuel rail. Think I'll do this as well - still have to order a PCV valve and grommet so I'll add it to my order with @gunny1005. Do you know him? He gets TW members a discount where he works at Camelback Toyota. Thanks again!

 

Yeah Gary is awesome! I ordered the radiator and parts from him. Funny you mention the PCV valve & grommet. Replacing that damn grommet was harder than the radiator, thermostat and sensor combined!!
Again, good luck and hope it all works out!

 

I've heard that it gets brittle and breaks apart - did that happen to you? I was thinking of coating it with epoxy on the top before I yanked it out?

 

Yes, that's exactly what happened. I was being so careful but it still broke apart. I used a small pair of needle nose pliars to pull chunks of it out. All of could think about was a piece falling into the valve cover.

 

Glad you got it all out - I just resealed the valve covers - big mistake not doing it then, but I didn't know about the issue until afterwards. What was the torque spec on the fuel rail bolt and temp sensor?

 

I don't have the Hayne's manual in front of me but it was only like 17lbs...maybe less.