So my water temp sender unit had some oxidation and corrosion to it, I figured that was why it wasn't reading temp- so I hit it with a wire brush and alas, when i turned the key it flickered!
but would not rise to middle blue/red on the white...even at operating temperature..the ground seems good, the sender lead is making contact..do i replace the sender? how do i check the gauge? any theories? also does anyone have an opinion on a 71 degree thermostat - i figured that would be best for an older vehicle to avoid overheating?