Temp gauge not working on my 97 starcraft with 3.0?

Question

Is there a way i can check to see if it is the sending unit or the gauge?

Answer 1

Use an ohmmeter to check resistance on the sender.  if the resistance changes as the temp changes, the sender is probably OK, narrowing your search to wiring or the gauge.

Answer 2

The answer to your question is yes.There is a very simple way to find out if it's a sender or a gauge problem.On the back of the gauge you have 3 wires,positive,negative and sender. With the key on use a short piece of wire and touch one end on the negative and the other end on the sender.If the

needle in the gauge flips to the highest or top, the gauge is fine,it's your sender that is not working.To make sure it is not a wiring problem,use your short wire and do the same only do

it at the motor where the temp sender is.This will work because I have done it many times in the past.This check will work with all gauges except tach & speedo.Good luck.