Coolent Temp Circuit Error Code: P0117

[Thunder Cat]

Hello, I have a 2000 Cougar MTX and I'm getting a Coolent Temp Circuit Error Code: P0117. A brand new Temp Sensor has been intalled. All of the wiring running to the Sensor has been changed because a new/different wiring harness has been installed for the whole engine. This problem exisited with the old harness and it remains still with the new one. Tomorrow I will replace the Temp Sender, but I do not think this is the cause of the error. My temp gauge is showing an incorrect temperature when the car is on.

I believe this error is causing my fans to run all the time. They never turn off. The car runs and drives but idles rough.

The only other error code I'm getting is the Evap Emissions Sensor: P0443, but I doubt that would be causing these problems in the Temp Circuit. This evap error will be more simple to fix but I didn't want to waste time/money on it until I've solved the first error.
Any ideas on what I might try to fix the Coolent Temp Circuit Error?

Also if their are any good wiring guys in New England Area that want to give a crack at this, please PM me, I'm willing to drive to you as I believe this is still a wiring issue.
Thanks

 

[aircougar]

If that evap tube isn't hooked up to the pcv valve and the valve isn't sealed properly under the uim, you will have a slight vacuum leak, which would cause a rough idle. You didn't tell me you had a rough idle, you said the car drives fine...
If the gauge isn't reading right, the sender could be shot... as I told you already.

This is a Cougar... most CEGers might not know the difference in the gauges between cougars and contours... I am offering to help, but you still keep asking others. I don't know what else to tell you. Its kind of frustrating when someone asks your advice, then doesn't try the possible solution, and then keeps asking for solutions. Take it one step at a time. Try the temp sender unit. I have a few extra ones, as others should too, instead of buying a new one... and double check the evap hose going to pcv valve please.
No one will be able to help you out here unless you try the solutions others have suggested first. You will just going back to the beginning and have to start tracing all over again.

Try what I said, and then ask questions....please.

 

[Thunder Cat]

If that evap tube isn't hooked up to the pcv valve and the valve isn't sealed properly under the uim, you will have a slight vacuum leak, which would cause a rough idle. You didn't tell me you had a rough idle, you said the car drives fine....

Sorry about that Greg, I was texting you while I was driving so im sure I left some of this info out.

If the gauge isn't reading right, the sender could be shot... as I told you already. Try the temp sender unit. I have a few extra ones, as others should too, instead of buying a new one... and double check the evap hose going to pcv valve please.

Thanks again Greg, I will try these things. My apologies for the frusteration, I'm starting from a 0% knowledge of cars so I'll need to buy one of the Chilton's guides to find out where the evap hose meets the PCV valve at the firewall. You are very kind to make these suggestions and I will update you of my progress.