I have an '85 Camaro Z28. Recently my water temp gauge became inaccurate. Now while driving the gauge rarely goes above 100 degrees. I replaced the temperature sending unit in the block, however the gauge is still inaccurate so I would like to replace the gauge.

I have thought of putting in a full line of AutoMeter gauges, however I would like to find a cheaper alternative. I am curious if there a place online to buy replacement water temp gauges that would bolt into the instrument panel? Thanks!

 

Check the needle on your guage and make sure the tip isn't dragging. My neighbor had the same issue and it was resolved by straightening the needle. Also, his car has only 39k miles, so this can happen to an unmodded or untouched car.

 

I really doubt its the gauge thats bad, I would lean more toward the thermostat being stuck open, my S-10 did exactly the same thing and would read barely above 100, now it gets right up to operating temp with a new t-stat.

 

how would the t stat being stuck open afect the temperature reading. id really like to know not trying to sound like a ****

 

how would the t stat being stuck open affect the temperature reading. id really like to know not trying to sound like a ****

 

Because the temperature will be very low, since water will constantly be flowing through the radiator. It will still get up to operating temp without a t-stat, it will just take a very long time.

 

If you have an IR temp gun, point it at a hose and it will be pretty close to the actual coolant temp. This is a quick way to cross-check the gauge to see if it's accurate or not.

 

Yeah I thought maybe my gauge was bad cause it wouldn't really move, but because it was stuck open the water kept flowing and never really had a chance to warm up. Once it closed right the water would warm up in the motor and the t-stat would open and the temp would drop just like it should!