The Subaru SVX World Network - Coolant Temp Sensor Warning

To those who have rough/low idle, poor starting, or emissions issues like myself, do NOT eliminate the coolant temp sensor as the culprit EVEN if new. Mine was replaced during my debacle in Reno a few months ago and today was found to be out-of-range for the temperature.

Using an infrared thermometer I can read the temp at the CTS and compare resistance values for that temp per the online manual that states: 300-400 ohms at 176F, 2000-3000 ohms at 68F. My "new" sensor reads 230 ohms at 183F, which is too low, however at 78F the resistance is hanging at 1460 ohms.... far too low for being 10F away from 2000 to 3000 ohms.

Correct me if im wrong, but this will result in the ECU going into closed loop before the engine is warmed up right?? My current issue is poor idling/random misfire while the temp gauge is between COLD and the normal hot position midway up. After the car is fully warm, the idle is stable but slightly low, possibly a result of the abnormally low resistance of the CTS indicating to the ECU that the engine is hotter than it really is??

Does anybody have a differing range of resistance values than whats stated in the online manual?? Because im basing my diag on the values indicated, and I dont want to blow another $40 if the manual is incorrect.

EDIT: Should mention its an Autozone CTS..... im sure the dealer sensor is plain awesome!