Revisit coolant temp gauge problems - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

**MikeB** · 03-26-2026, 12:46 PM

I have a 69 bezel with 73-87 electric oil pressure and voltmeter gauges. Both work fine, but I'm not happy with the 69 coolant temp gauge because it's super non-linear.

I have two stock 67-72 and one stock 73-87 temp gauges that I've played with, and a variety of senders and shunt resistors. But with my best combination, the pointer doesn't move off far left until about 150 degrees, but then starts moving quickly to the right.

Fortunately, the pointer is near center when actual temp is about 180-190. But at 210 or so the pointer is far right, not pegged but where you'd think it would be at 230 or higher.

What I'd like to find is a gauge that fits in my panel along with its sender that's a little more linear. Any suggestions.

Here's my calibration standard (!) and instrument panel. Sender is just to the right.

03-26-2026, 12:46 PM	#1
MikeB Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2000 Location: North Texas Posts: 4,035	Revisit coolant temp gauge problems I have a 69 bezel with 73-87 electric oil pressure and voltmeter gauges. Both work fine, but I'm not happy with the 69 coolant temp gauge because it's super non-linear. I have two stock 67-72 and one stock 73-87 temp gauges that I've played with, and a variety of senders and shunt resistors. But with my best combination, the pointer doesn't move off far left until about 150 degrees, but then starts moving quickly to the right. Fortunately, the pointer is near center when actual temp is about 180-190. But at 210 or so the pointer is far right, not pegged but where you'd think it would be at 230 or higher. What I'd like to find is a gauge that fits in my panel along with its sender that's a little more linear. Any suggestions. Here's my calibration standard (!) and instrument panel. Sender is just to the right. Attached Images __________________ Mike 1969 Custom/10 LWB -- owned for 37 years. 350/TH350, 3.08 posi, recent AAW wiring harness, 5-lug conversion, 1985 spindles and brakes. Hedman stainless headers. Old Air installation in progress. 1982 Custom Deluxe 10 SWB -- converted from 250-six to roller cam 350 w/ Vortec heads -- sold 1981 C10 Silverado LWB, 305, TH350C -- sold, but wish I still had it! 1969 C10 (not the current one) which I bought in the early 1980s. Paid $1200; sold for $1500 a few years later. Just a hint at the appreciation that was coming. Retired as a factory automation products salesman. Worked part-time over the years for an engine builder and a classic car repair shop. Member here for 26 years! This is the very first car/truck Internet forum I joined. I still used a dial-up modem back then!



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