FJ40 SBC 350 Conversion Temperature Sending Unit placement

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Joined
Mar 11, 2011
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Hey Guys,

I bought my FJ with the SBC already done by the previous owner and have questions about hooking up a temperature gauge. I have a pretty basic knowledge of 350s and know that, ideally, you'd like to hook it up via the port between #1 and #3 cylinders. However, I just got my clutch done by a guy who specializes in FJs and he informed me that I probably have an older block and that my headers are blocking the port.

He gave me a couple options to route it off the intake. My heater is not hooked up (probably leaks) so he was saying I could plug the water pump and take the port off the intake. However, I just took pictures and I *think* i just found an old sending unit. I know the ideal route is off the head but want to get your expertise(s) to give me some advice.

I've tried researching all the threads to figure this out on my own but there's so many different combinations when doing these SBC swaps. This is a picture of the intake between the carb and distributor. Any idea what this unit is?
Km2Rc


I also need to figure out a shroud (has none at the moment) or taurus fan option but I'll leave that to a later date. If this is in fact the temperature sending unit, would you guys recommend an aftermarket gauge or just the stock gauge in the cluster? I like the somewhat clean look of the stock items but will go with what you guys recommend. Thanks a lot in advance for your help.
 
i have mine in a port on the passengers side of the block. thats where iv seen most of em hooked up on 350's
 
Howdy! I have seen them added by using a later model thermostat housing that has one or two extra ports in it for the smog switches. Cheap and easy at most parts stores. John
 
Howdy! I have seen them added by using a later model thermostat housing that has one or two extra ports in it for the smog switches. Cheap and easy at most parts stores. John

X2
That is the place I have mine.
 
That sender in the 1st pic is occupying a hole in an intake runner. No water temp available there. The hole is used for manifold vacuum port, usually for power brakes and possibly other stuff. Many intake manifolds have a port in coolant runner on the opposite side of the carb.
 
Hey Guys,

Thanks for the help thus far. Here's a pic of the front of the intake by the thermostat:

MOgFm.jpg


Is that plugged port an option for a temperature sensor? I have a Weiand 8004 intake and believe it is (from what I could find on the internet) but want to make sure.

Sincerely,

Justin
 
thats where mine also is located but im not sure if its the best, i swear i get hotter than normal temp readings from it there.
 
Thats where mine is too and it works fine.
 
You guys are awesome, thanks so much.

Now to find out how hot I'm running.....
 

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