Another IAT sensor question

[FatTonyZx2ner]

So a few days ago I asked what grommet size was needed to accommodate the IAT sensor when drilling a 99+ intake for use with an early 99. I went to pickup the grommet and thought.....why?

Why do we bother drilling an intake to put in a weatherproof sensor that reads intake air temp.

We're putting an object in the airflow path of the intake causing turbulance (very little I know, but still).

We have a TON of timing room so even if it was cooler outside than in the intake there's play to be had.

Why can't we secure the IAT sensor externally instead of drilling?

[mechtech]

It has to be in the airflow. You could probably put it in front of the air cleaner in a near stock housing, and it would be OK. But conventional placement is best.
Don't worry about the air flow at all.

But, "we have a ton of timing room'? What does that mean?

[FatTonyZx2ner]

My thinking was that if it was outside the housing it may get different temp readings or grabbing cooler readings (if it were the case) would be ok because the timing

[5spdzx2]

A grommet is not about waterproofing, its about making it airtight and ensuring no air leaks.

[FatTonyZx2ner]

I realize that. The waterproofing statement was about it being outside the intake, not about the intake leaking. I had a CTA a few years back and did modify it to allow the IAT, I was just wondering what the reasoning was. I guess I was looking for more than a "because" answer.

[5spdzx2]

Just wondering why you want it out there? Just dont want to drill the intake? Are you just trying to get a lower reading?

[FatTonyZx2ner]

Not saying I want it out there. I guess I was just questioning the method. I have no problem putting a hole in a piece of plastic (i'm not that lazy). Since we do have the seperate part I was wondering on the reasoning (and curious about the different air temp readings that may occur). Wondering if anyone had done it, things like that.

[99fordzx2]

I had a friend with a Mercury Cougar V-6 that extended the wires and placed his IAT sensor in front of his radiator. Said it helped a little in the butt dyno.



-D

[Beodude123]

If the main reason you are concerned about putting it inside the intake is it's affect on airflow... I wouldn't worry too much. With the other restrictions in the intake path, having a tiny thing in the intake won't change it much at all. If anything, it would be more powerful, because it would give you more advanced timing, due to the air inside the intake being colder than the piping carrying the air.