Air temperature sensor

[DanG86LX]

I need help with a temperature sensor from the air cleaner ass. It is mounted in the air duct after air control diaphragm.
It is item 41. SENSOR ASSY., TA, and you can see it here:
http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/auto/jsp/mws/prddisplay.jsp?inputstate=5&catcgry1=Accord&catcgry2=1986&catcgry3=4DR+LX&catcgry4=KA4AT&catcgry5=AIR+CLEANER+%28CARB.%29

I checked mine and is open (infinite resistance). It might be ok if it is actually a thermo switch and it closes at lower temperatures, say 0degC.. But if it is a sensor I expected to get some reading from it (with a DVM). Does anybody know what is this for. It seems that is connected to ECU.

[carotman]

my guess is that it's connected to the carbed "ECU" and will control the pre-heater hose opening.

[DanG86LX]

Thanks Carotman, that might explain my problems with cold start here:
http://3geez.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2463
I'll try to replace the bugger.

[carotman]

hmmmpf, let me test the one I have here first,

But I honestly don't think it would cause hard starting.

[shepherd79]

hey carot man,
read the haynes manual how to test those sukers. you have to use hot water. it is pain in the ass. i did on mine.

[88LXi/87CRXSi]

The TA sensor is a temperature dependent resister (thermister). Is there 1-4k ohms? No > repace TA sensor. :)

- Steve

[POS carb]

that sensor seems to affect when the air suction system opens up too (I dunno, I haven't had it for over a year now, I forget what else it does)
Bad starting/idling in these cars is usually related to manifold vacuum leaks

[DanG86LX]

Today I phoned Honda dealer and asked for an "air temperature sensor" and they told me that this thing is actually an "air temperature switch"! Then I decided to further test my old one. I started with hot water and nothing happen - open circuit. Then I stuff it in the frigi BINGO ! i got a short circuit. ..and saved ~$60can ;)
As for its purpose there I not sure yet. I shorted the two wires going to this switch but nothing happen. It did not disable the air suction system (mine is on at idle), but it might do some other jobs when the outside is below 7degC (like in my frigi anyway).

[carotman]

it will not disable the air suction system, it will change the hot air bypass

[88LXi/87CRXSi]

DanG86LX, I am so sorry for the bad info!!
:crying: Stupid me, I looked in my 88 Helms under the carb section and that's what it said. Must of changed the sensor style. Again sorry, and glad the dealer gave you the right info!