coolant temp. sensor

[fgaeta]

I have a 93 300se, model 140. If the coolant sensor is faulty, does this effect the blower motor going on and the compressor going on and off? my blower motor has been working on and off for some time now. today my auxillary fans were on full force, and the temp. outside was 25 degrees. I tapped the Temp. housing and my blower motor and compresser came to life. I then played with the black plastic connector to the sensor and the compressor would come on and off. Does this sensor effect these components. How can I check to see if the sensor is good or not, before I order a new one?