Temperature Sensor Broke off 4.7 Ram 1500

[SeniorRob]

Hi Guys, sorry that my introduction is asking for help but I got my self in a jam, Yesterday while trying to replace the Temperature sensor on my 2011 ram 1500 St 4.7 with 228k miles, the replacement sensor (not plastic) would not bite and had to force it it which was my first mistake, once I could thread it forcefully (second mistake) it took me using my largest 1/2 ratchet handle and it snapped, in an attempt to keep driving my truck which is my only vehicle I decided to install the old plastic sensor in place of the burp plug splicing the wires and extending to location.
A: Is this a doable option? even if temporary?
B: How to remove the snapped sensor?

 

[QwikKota]

To remove the broken off sensor you will have to drill a hole in it and use a screw extractor. They bite into the internal walls of the hole by rotating counter-clockwise. Left hand bits help on small screws but probably won't make a difference on a large fitting.

Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/REBRA-Screw-Extractor-Left-Hand-Rounded-Off/dp/B0BWD5DKZD

 

[SeniorRob]

Much appreciated, Thanks QwikKota.

 

[QwikKota]

That is the location I put my sensor for my Auto-Meter gauge when I had my 4.7L Dakota. The temp seemed to match the idiot gauge on the dash. The thermostat is downstream at the bottom of the block. It should be ok temporarily.

 

[crackerjack1957]

Once you get it out........ probably need to re tap threads or it will happen again.

 

[QwikKota]

Once you get it out........ probably need to re tap threads or it will happen again.

I was going to suggest that as well but NPT thread repair tools are hard to find. Probably ok to use a standard NPT tap but I would be careful with it and put grease on it to catch any metal shavings.

 

[Wild one]

The trucks close to 15 years old with 228,000 on it,if the broke off sensor isn't leaking,i'd leave it alone,and just work with the location you have it in now.
Not saying much but Bohunk comes to mind

 

[HarryS]

First thing that comes to mind is this "never force it."

 

[SeniorRob]

Quick Update, replaced plastic sensor with a new copper sensor from Rock Auto, driving well even though temp reading is a bit lower. Tonight driving home from work check engine light reappears. Will check the code in the morning, but wanted to show dash reading while on the highway, is my temperature reading on the low side? It’s a cool night but this 4.7 would always register higher temperatures.

 

[04fxdwgi]

Rams usually are happier with the OEM sensors. They don't like aftermarket and do odd things with aftermarket installed.

I would say that 69 deg F temp is a tad low, like 120 deg low. If truck has been running long enough to warm up, it should be close to 200 deg F. Either the sensor is NG or you have other issues.

 

[SeniorRob]

As I suspected code P0128, this time I stopped when the new sensor would not go any further. I will try a new thermostat I also ordered from Rock Auto over this weekend.

 

[SeniorRob]

After driving to work today, I’m perplexed but will swap the Thermostat on Sunday.

 

[04fxdwgi]

Stat may be stuck open. Did the truck over heat recently?

What was ambient temp when you took both those photos?