Hello all
i recently bought a 1997 f150 with the 4.6 v8 and a couple of days ago when I started it, the temp guage went straight into the red!
I have discovered this is a known issue and puts the truck into limp mode?
Im wondering if there is any easy way round this problem as I really need the truck right now and my resources are limited.
can anyone help?

thank you

 

Possibly. The 97 uses both ECT and CHT sensors. Swamping out the CHT requires some down time. However, the ECT would be much simpler and quick. Determine if it's indeed a ECT malfunction first.

 

Thank you I will look into that.

 

I was trying to get my truck to the auto parts store to buy a new sensor after I had checked the connections and looked at the wiring to make sure there was no obvious damage, which there didn’t appear to be.
The temp guage is still pegged to the max so I tried turning off the ignition and found if I can turn it back on before the motor stops fully, the gauge reads normal and the truck will drive as usual!
just curious if this is a sign of something else?

 

Probably a "bad" connection at the sensor. Try removing, inspecting and re-seating both of them.

 

Also, see where the harness 90's there...just before the connector?

The copper wires inside the insulation can fatigue falling apart inside loosing connection there. You won't see it.

Make sure that isn't the case before purchasing another.