Newbie temp gauge problems

[sgw_88FoxGT]

My temperature gauge doesn't work. Doesn't move at all actually. I have no idea how to go about fixing it or where to start. I have all the necessary tools and a volt meter w/probes. Where do I start?

 

[Rick James]

Check the temperature sending unit.Go buy a chilton or haynes book at the parts stoe.

 

[sgw_88FoxGT]

I have a chiltons but it's no help.

Temp sending unit, you mean the ECT? I know that works, I checked it.

 

[jrichker]

Turn the ignition switch to the Run position. Check for voltage at the sender connection (driver's side, lower front intake manifold). Mine shows about 5 volts with the wire disconnected from the sender. The sender connection is a single wire with a push on connection. No voltage, check the ten pin salt 7 pepper shakers. One of the wires is for the temp gauge sender. No voltage there, there is a bad connection in the wiring or in the gauge cluster, or the gauge is faulty.

Check the resistance between the sender push on terminal and the engine block: it should about 74 Ohms cold (+/- 20%) and 10 Ohms hot (+/- 20%). If the sender is out of resistance spec, replace it.