Air Temperature Sensor ( Ambient / Intake ): Description and Operation

Charge Air Temperature Sensor:

LOCATION

The Charge Air Temperature sensor is threaded into the intake manifold.


PURPOSE

The sensor element extends into the incoming airstream to measure the temperature of the air passing through the intake manifold.


OPERATION

The engine controller sends out a reference voltage of approximately five (5) volts to the charge air temperature sensor. As air temperature changes, the internal resistance of the sensor will change, causing a varying voltage drop across the sensor. The engine controller reads the voltage drop across the sensor as charge air temperature.