Problem with size of tach reader in the PS 3 Steam Upgrade Kit (50-1911)

Yes, this is a PS2 style tachometer, applicable for a PS3 upgrade steam kit because that wiring harness is actually PS2 style.

That said, all you have to do is rip out the factory foam spacer (they are very, very, very soft foam), and then I reflow one side (2 pins of the 4 pin optical sensor) and push up to make it flush or the adjusted height, then do the other side 2 pins. I thought the upgrade manual explains this procedure?

https://mthtrains.com/sites/de...ction/50as10709i.pdf

I can understand the why you might be asking and just replace the tach reader PCB as a unit, as overheating while soldering can damage the sensor. Again, I get it, in some ways, replacing the whole sensor PCB to a non-spaced version, and thus not soldering directly on the sensor itself, yes, there might be a time and place for that.

I just somehow got this search results very applicable to the conversation

PS3 sensor specific to diesels and specific to PS3 factory steam, with a PS3 boiler board- yes, uses the wider and different bracketed PS3 sensor.

Thanks, Vernon.  The manual does explain removing the spacer, but that is very difficult.  I am going to use the  58 sensor.

@bruce benzie posted:

Thanks, Vernon.  The manual does explain removing the spacer, but that is very difficult.  I am going to use the  58 sensor.

Hopefully, that search and chart list I gave you (I know, only a picture) but does have part numbers and more detailed descriptions specific to PS2 style readers that would be relevant to PS3 Steam upgrade kit scenarios.

Again, lists out 1.5mm, 2.2, and then no gap, while also giving the bare sensor part ID in case you need it too.

I just clip the leads at the board and remove the sensor.  Clean out the holes and then solder the sensor back on, more than enough lead remaining to replace it without the spacer.

To clean out the holes, try heating the clipped connections and then just flip the board onto the bench, the inertia will knock the solder out, quick and painless.

Those tach reader sensors are very sensitive to static and heat.  So becareful.  This is why I keep a selection of tach reader.  Speakers too.  Upgrade kits are generic.  G

@GGG posted:

Those tach reader sensors are very sensitive to static and heat.  So becareful.  This is why I keep a selection of tach reader.  Speakers too.  Upgrade kits are generic.  G

Correct, I set the soldering iron to 500F (260C) for the task, that's the sensor's rated soldering temperature.

Not just the heat but how long you keep the iron applied to the board.  Be quick.

@superwarp1 posted:

Not just the heat but how long you keep the iron applied to the board.  Be quick.

Correct, most semiconductors specify 10 seconds max at 260C.