Standard Ignition TS-388 Engine Coolant Temperature Sender

Engine Coolant Temperature Sender for Gauge Applications

Standard Ignition TS-388 is an engine coolant temperature sender built for gauge-equipped Ford and Mercury applications. It uses a bolt-on attachment, a male round connector, and a male stud terminal for a direct electrical connection in the cooling system circuit.

Designed with calibrated thermal actuation, this sender helps deliver a precise signal to the temperature gauge. It is a practical replacement for drivers servicing a 1995-2002 Ford Contour, Mercury Mystique, or Mercury Cougar with the correct gauge setup.

Key Features

• Bolt-on attachment method for secure mounting
• Male round connector with one connector and one stud terminal
• Factory-calibrated thermal switching for specified actuation temperature
• Built with formed bimetallic contact arm design for consistent signal transfer
• Robust construction using high-grade materials for service use
• Standard Ignition TS-388 cross-references Four Seasons 37978 for the same application

Detailed Description

The Standard Ignition TS-388 engine coolant temperature sender is engineered to provide a reliable temperature signal for the gauge circuit. Its thermal design uses calibrated internal components to respond at the specified temperature range, while the bimetal contact system supports accurate electrical contact as coolant temperature changes. Standard Ignition manufactures this sender with quality control from component selection through final testing.

Compatible With 2000-2002 Mercury Cougar, threaded; with gauge. Compatible With 1998-2000 Ford Contour, 1 term, with gauge. Compatible With 1998-2000 Mercury Mystique, 1 term, with gauge. Compatible With 1999 Mercury Cougar, 1 term, with gauge. Compatible With 1995-1997 Ford Contour, fits engines with gauges. Compatible With 1995-1997 Mercury Mystique, fits engines with gauges.

What It Helps Solve

• Inaccurate coolant temperature gauge readings
• Intermittent or unstable gauge signal from a worn sender
• Temperature indication issues after cooling system service
• Replacement needs for a damaged bolt-on sender connection
• Electrical contact problems at the coolant temperature sender terminal

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify the connector style, terminal count, and gauge-equipped application before installation. Match the sender to the vehicle’s year, make, and model exactly, since Ford Contour, Mercury Mystique, and Mercury Cougar applications vary by engine and gauge configuration. Clean the mounting surface and confirm the electrical connection is fully seated before returning the vehicle to service.

Quality Assurance

Standard Ignition applies factory calibration and testing to confirm switch actuation at the specified temperature. The TS-388 is produced under controlled manufacturing processes to support consistent performance in service applications.