Cant Find the Coolant Temp Sensor in an 88 Nissan Pathfinder.

You need to run some tests. When it fails, is it still getting spark to plugs? Is exhaust restricted? Is coolant temp sensor bad?

Please don't hurt more walls! Just kidding..what a problem. If you have the correct sensor installed and it is working correctly (check with multimeter for change in resistance when cold, warm, hot) then the signal getting to the computer must be getting scrambled in some way. Check the wire connection where you clip it onto the sensor. Use a multi meter and check for continuity there and back further along the wire.
if you can't trace the wire all the way to the computer, you may have to do a bodge job..rig a wire into the cab with an on off switch.
Only to be used when the engine is warm..flick switch to off, start truck, flick switch back to reengage sensor.......
think of it as an unusual theft deterrent !

Some engines have a cold start injector, others use only coolant temp sensor. Either can cause your problem. Check for nice fat blue spark at plugs also.

Here's a link to your coolant temp. sensor,you may have a coolant temp. sender too,they are by each other, Duralast Coolant Temperature Sensor SU4072 2005 Nissan Datsun Titan 2WD... Here's a part list. Part Detail There's no way to test it,just have to replace and see if it solves the problem.I have a 85 nissan 720,mine has both sensor and sender,the sender operates the gauge on dash,the sensor sends signal to the brain.

Just a guess,but maybe the coolant temp sensor.

i had the same problem on mine it turned out to be the baffle in the air cleaner and a dirty air cleaner filter after changing ran just fine

its a air inlet temp sensor code if that sensor is good check the coolant temp sensor and trans temp sensors if there not close in temp it trips the code

the following link is a break down diagram of the engine.

here

the coolant sensor is item 22630.

enjoy.

It should run smooth no matter the temp. Dash o2 light will indicate if it is bad. I would start looking for a vacuum leak.

your transmission has several electrical items in it from speed sensor to shif solonoids your car is getting hot because you are running high rpms you might want to pull some codes off your car with a diagnostic machine