Does ECT sensor means that an engine without a thermostat will consume more gas?

[MasterGoa]

Hi all.

This is a theoretical subject for sure, but having a pair of Ford 302's EFI (MPI)
in front of Cobra drives, I was reading the maintenance manual and noticed
that there are Engine Cooling Temperature(ECT) sensors. Since the engines
never go past 120F, does this signal the engine to keep a cold, rich mixture
going, thinking its still warming up?

Also, the manual says that advance is raised when cold and set back to
normal when hot. Does not increased advance provide more pick-up
or does it risk over advance and detonation? (The engines do have knock sensors).

Any insight appreciated!

 

[Don S]

Re: Does ECT sensor means that an engine without a thermostat will consume more gas?

Yes, they will use more gas, and yes the timing will change, but the system also will change the timing to prevent knocking.

You need to replace the thermostat and get the temps up to normal. You should have 160? stats in them and run in the 175? vicinity.

 

[MasterGoa]

Re: Does ECT sensor means that an engine without a thermostat will consume more gas?

Thanks.

Will do.