Hi - I can not find a manifold intake air temperature sensor (IAT) for my Jeep Cherokee Laredo 4.0 I6.
I've looked over an hour - Rock Auto, just Google-ing, CarParts, eBay and the like.
1991 is the only new version i can buy.
No need to discuss WHY I need it as I am in the process of eliminating a particular problem that I don't want to go into here, thanks.

Anyone just know whee i can get one, without going to a pick-n-pull?
RV

 

The Coolant Temperature Sensor has the same resistance response curve as the IAT. Being encased in brass does slow down the response, but the ambient air temperature generally doesn't change fast enough for it to be an issue.

You'll want to relocate it to the Air Filter Housing to isolate it from the heat of the exhaust manifold to reduce the time it takes to cool down to ambient air temperature after restarting a hot engine that has sat for a while. It shouldn't last but a few 10s seconds and it's just a slight reduction in performance due to the ECM retarding the timing, not a big deal...

 

Another work around, as the OEM sensor is no longer available. Nick Risley, maker of the REM II (RENIX Engine Monitor) suggests a GM sensor. To install it in the manifold requires drilling and tapping. I suggest, like Jim, that it be placed in the air filter housing instead - leaving the old defunked sensor in the port on the manifold. The part number can be found toward the bottom of this link, and regardless of where it is located, the pigtail (connector) needs to be modified. But I can say from my own experience that it does work: Renix Parts Suggestions – NickInTimeDesign

 

That post reads this:

Intake Manifold Air Temp Sensor (IAT)
The stock IAT sensor has been long discontinued so we will need to adapt a similar sensor instead. Tip from David Groeneveld:
– GM part 213-190 will replace it but requires the intake manifold port to be retapped to 3/8″NPT (stock is 1/4″NPT) and replacing the pigtail connector as well. This will update the sensor to a currently used part with the correct resistance range.

I will have to start a different thread on why I am considering replacing this.
But before I do anything, is there a way to "test" the exisitng IAT so that I can make sure that it is or is not OK? Note: I am not a mechanic and can give instructions (e.g. ohm or voltage readings) to him to test it.

 

Well, that's refreshing. Nobody wants to test anything anymore. The second component down on the link is the resistance chart for the sensor (he calls it a MAT). A word of warning, if you haven't tried to remove it yet, mine shattered even trying to remove it, so be cautious in the attempt. Jeep Cherokee Engines - RENIX (non-HO) Engine Sensor Diagnostics

 

Very cool. It sounds like penetrating oil is in order. You should maybe have the parts ready for the mod-to air tube.
I know an electrical guy who built a wiring harness for a half-track from scratch with gauges. I hope he can help. Living in the City is tough for working on cars since if something doesn't work, I have to tow it to move it.
Thanks, everyone.
I will start another thread on how I got to this point because there is another issue with my '88 Jeep, a gift from my mom that I want to keep going as much as possible.