Parts for your 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero-Temperature sensors

1986 Mitsubishi Pajero temperature sensors — what they do and how to look after them

Technical references confirm the first‑gen (L040) 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero does use temperature sensors. The Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Factory Service Manual (1982–1991) details an Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor for fuel and timing control on EFI petrol models, a single‑wire sender for the dash gauge, and coolant temperature inputs for diesel glow control. Gregory’s Manual No. 519 and the Mitsubishi ASA/CAPS parts catalogue also list part numbers for the ECT sensor, the gauge sender, and thermo‑fan/air‑con related switches on certain trims. So, temperature sensors are absolutely relevant and fitted on 1986 Pajero models.

On a 1986 Pajero, temperature sensors quietly keep things tidy under the bonnet. They feed the ECU (where fitted) with the engine’s coolant temperature so it can trim fuel and ignition when cold, run the choke strategy properly on EFI petrols, and prevent over‑fuelling once warm. Diesels rely on a coolant temp sensor to manage glow plug timing and cold‑start advance. There’s also a separate sender that drives the dash gauge, and in some specs a thermo switch cues auxiliary fans or air‑con cut‑out to keep temps in the green when you’re crawling a track in summer.

• Coolant temperature sensor (ECT) – EFI control and diesel glow strategy
• Temperature sender – feeds the dash gauge
• Thermo switch/sensor – fan or A/C logic on certain models

Servicing tips for the Pajero’s temperature sensors are straightforward and very DIY‑friendly:

• Check connectors first. The plugs near the thermostat housing cop heat and coolant vapour