Hi, I am new to the forums. I have a 2011 Ranger with the 4.0 v6. My thermostat housing is leaking and I ordered a new one. The new one has two sensors but the one in the truck only has one sensor. Can I use the one I ordered and just only plug in the corresponding sensor, or do I need ot order one that only has the single sensor on it?

Thanks,
Glenn

 

You only need to use the one sensor, the 5volt ECT sensor, the other one is for a 12volt Sender used for the dash board temp gauge in earlier models
Later models with digital dash got the engine temp for gauge from the computer so didn't need the 2nd sender

 

Since there's no thread, what do you plug the unused hole with?

 

To answer op question yes.
Use what u have.

 

Use the old sensor, if you don't have one then get one, from wrecking yard or new one from autoparts store
If getting a new one get another ETC sensor in case the other one fails, just move connector over to the other one
You may need the retaining clip as well if these didn't come with sensor

Housing change seen here, good write up with pictures: How To Replace the Upper and Lower Thermostat Housing on a Ford 4.0L V6 SOHC Engine

You can now get metal thermostat housings as the plastic ones tend to crack, so if it happens again I would look at that option

 

If it's not too late to return it you can get one from Murray that has two holes, one has a removable plug. I just replaced mine in a 2005 4.0L Ranger.

https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c...r+outlet&pos=3

 

The one I ordered has two sensors already attached and has a new thermostat already installed. I plan to install the new assembly and just connect the passenger side sensor and leave the other installed but not plugged in. The existing one has the passenger side port with the sensor and a blank port that doesn't actually have a hole in it towards the driver's side.

For what it's worth, this is what I ordered. https://www.autozone.com/cooling-hea...2s/1005767_0_0

Thanks for the responses and the reassurance that I shouldn't have to return this and wait for a replacement to be shipped again.

 

Before you re-install the sensors get two new O Rings for the sensors. Better to replace them before you install the thermostat housing and have to tear everything apart just to have to replace the O Rings afterward. I found the correct size at my local hardware store just bring the old one with you to match it up.

 

Update: I just finished up the swap and everything is perfect. No leaks. The factory plug for the single sensor only fits one of the two that came on the new assembly, so that was easy. Plugged that one in and just left the other unused one in place. I linked before the part that I used and here is the video I watched before I did the job. Great instruction without any BS. I did the whole job in about two hours including filling up with coolant and testing for leaks.

 

Good news that the replacement went well.
Though wish you had installed an Aluminum ThermoStat Housing instead.
Hopefully this plastic one will last.

 

Can Notsofast71 provide a separate link to the video? It's not available.

 

The new assembly came with two sensors. I just left the second one in place without plugging it in.