63 Temp gauge with inconsistent readings

[Bob A.]

Occasionally the temp gauge on my 63 will top out and the needle will fall to the far right, 240+, when the engine is still cold/warming up. Connections are good on the sending unit and the gauge - temp gauge/instrument panel rebuilt and working well for over two years. I shut the car off then on and the gauge goes back to normal reading - sub 180 - while still cold/warm. Any guidance on the cause and corrective action is appreciated.

[James W.]

Re: 63 Temp gauge with inconsistent readings

I had this happen with my '65 temp gauge. Ended up being the gauge which I had tested and repaired.

James

Occasionally the temp gauge on my 63 will top out and the needle will fall to the far right, 240+, when the engine is still cold/warming up. Connections are good on the sending unit and the gauge - temp gauge/instrument panel rebuilt and working well for over two years. I shut the car off then on and the gauge goes back to normal reading - sub 180 - while still cold/warm. Any guidance on the cause and corrective action is appreciated.

[Mark E.]

Re: 63 Temp gauge with inconsistent readings

Make sure there isn't any thread sealer or Teflon tape on the sending unit threads. Then with the sender installed and the gauge pegged, check resistance between the sender's post and engine block. Zero or infinity is a problem

[Stephen L.]

Re: 63 Temp gauge with inconsistent readings

I experienced a similiar problem. When engine cold, the gauge read correctly. As the engine warmed the gauge followed to a point and then would peg to max. Turned out to be a faulty temp sensor.