Connector for Universal/Westerbeke temp sensor

[Project_Mayhem]

The temp sensor connector was starting to fail on my M25XP. The wire was breaking and it would barely hold on to the button connector on the sensor. After a few days of research I found a few temp sensors for GM sensors that looked the same. Westerbeke is known for using automotive components so I gave it a try. Shipping was faster than expected. I received a high quality connector with pigtail from the listing below. It even features what appears to be high temp wire on it. The wire is a smaller gauge so a step down butt connector is suggested. I'm posting this as I'm sure someone, someday will also need to replace their connector.
Coolant Temp Gauge Connector Pigtail Harness 89-92 TPI TBI Camaro Temperature | eBay

 

[Richard19068]

Thanks.
Is this essentially a spade connector with temperature resistant wire?

 

[Project_Mayhem]

The temp sensor wire looks like a button. A spade connector would not work well and would fall off at some point. Here's another seller's pic:

 

[Richard19068]

Got it. Thanks.
My Universal M18 sender just has a spade connector so I was curious.

 

[Project_Mayhem]

You're fortunate. This connector kinda sucks

 

[JoeWhite]

Thanks fir posting this info. My M35B has this type of connector.

 

[Ward H]

Great find! The connector on my M25XP is in poor shape. I'll be ordering one.
Thanks

 

[Project_Mayhem]

I'm guessing they can make one with a brown wire if you ask

 

[Project_Mayhem]

Today, I received my package of new, high quality Molex crimp connectors (Lake-View Electronics was the cheapest). I had been using TiConn brand heatshrink connectors which are better than others but still had a higher than desired failure rate. Right away I noticed a big difference in the insulation. After using them, I am blown away in the improvement in quality.

Naturally I used them to install the temp sensor connector (using a 18-22awg to 14-16awg butt connector). My original wire was failing right at the end of the crimp. This time I added some heatshrink. It wasn't easy getting the heat in the right place but I got it on the second attempt. The new crimp connectors worked great and I'm confident it will outlast the boat.

The wire that failed likely failed due to vibrations and heat cycles that the insulation was subjected to. The wires are stiff. I would suggest to anyone with this engine to secure the wire to another engine component with a zip tie so it's not flailing back and forth