I need the sensor for the drivers side head that controls the gauge in the car. Could you direct me to what i need to ask for at the auto part store and how i go about changing this gauge. Thank you.

 

Coolant Temp Sending Unit
According to my Next Generation Restoration and Performance catalog by Year One

 

As to you're second question,Unhook the wire thats on it(the wire slides on to the tip) and unscrew it out,Be carefull,coolant will pour out once you take it out.Use a little thred tape
on the new one before you screw it back in.

 

I wouldn't ask for the Coolant Temp sensor cause that is probably exactly what you would get. The CTS goes in the front of the intake manifold. What you're looking for is the Temp guage sending unit.

 

and some more advice would be that you should change it in the street, preferably in front of the neighbors house...

 

lol

 

So Tom who told him to ask for the coolant temp sensor?
Lets say it all together(COOLANT TEMP SENDING UNIT).

 

Temperature Gauge Sending Unit

Avoid confusion

 

You did, and that's not what he needs. There is a difference between the Coolant Temp Sending unit and the Temp gauge sending unit.