I plan to replace it as it was, but I'm sure its a temperature sensor of some kind. It's a solid copper wire, think way back to old analog outdoor thermometers that the sensor lead was a solid copper wire, same idea. I would think that the lead transmits temperature info in analog format to the control knob.
The temperature control has a distinct click feel when turned, at which time the burner turns on or off. I can't say that I've ever noticed that point being in a different place relative to camper temperature (temperature doesn't affect or move in relation to the knob setting) .
Going to do some searching tomorrow morning on the 'puter, for some technical info on the thing .....
