Dash Gauge Testing?
 

Anybody know the correct way to bench test the different gauges? Temp.,fuel, amps,

If you just want to test if they are working, just hook them up to 12 volts, if the needle moves the gauge works, not sure on how to test accuracy though.

Well I'm not looking for accuracy, just to know if they work correctly. Hooked temp gauge to 12v and it smelled . Fuel gauge moves with 12v.

Sounds like you might have fried your temp gauge.

any body have any ideas?

Is it possible to put the cluster back in a truck to test it???? That's the easiest way and will save a lot of trouble.