Great article - thanks for that link! Explains starting behavior this morning. Will order up some parts - I think I've got it pinned down on Europarts but am going to wait until they open to be sure. Bentley's says always replace ECT Sensor G62 with ECT Sensor G2 (not sure if dropping the '6' is intentional there or not.)
Here's a link to sensor swap on an AKX, do not forget to order O ring and plastic retainer clip for another $2.
http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?4765057-Eurovan-coolant-temp-sensor-replacementI'll post up the PO441 solution I used later this week.
http://europarts-sd.com/sensor-coolanttemperature1999-2003.aspAfternoon update -
I hooked the battery back up and EV cranks and stays running - no MIL. Didn't drive it around, heading out on a work trip in renta-rig. Did order up parts for swap. Also noted the detail write up link was for 12V not 24V so expect there may be a few deltas in procedure but great advice and with parts bill of $17 pretty low risk spend.
Following fix update -
So it's been 500k (EV originated in CAN) since the dreaded 'black plastic' temp sensor has been swapped out with new an improved 'green plastic' temp sensor and no MIL. I'm feeling pretty good that the old piece was junk. I tried for a dissection of the retired but pretty much just busted to pieces as I brought no grace and only force to the process.