computer/circuit damage by running wrong sesnor?

[jaymac]

I just found out the other day I've been running an ACT sensor in place of my ECT for several months now, simply because I'm an idiot; long story.
So I put in a new Motorcraft ECT today, but my question is: could I have caused damage in the comp. or the circuit by using the incorrect sensor for so long? AKA, will my ECT now function correctly? Time will tell if the "hard hot starting" and poor MPG go away, as I just put it in and drove 5 minutes back to work, but any opinions in advance about possible electrical damage I might've done?
Thanks guys,
Jeremy

 

[jrichker]

No damage. The sensor element (thermistor) is the same for both ECT & ACT. The only difference is the ECT is covered so that water won't damage the sensor or affect the readings.

 

[jaymac]

Oh, so is that why the ACT worked fine for a few days and then sucked again?