temp sensor issues?

[schurg]

hello everyone!

I've been browsing the backlog of threads here, trying to figure out what I thought would be a simple problem. I have a 68 c10 with the original dash gauges, but I have a new(er) crate 350cid. my problem is that I dont know what I should do about a temp sender. I didnt think there would be an issue till I found a few threads here talkin about having to machine new senders to fit old motors, or, determining if the resistance is correct for the factory gauge. seems like alot of potential variables for such a simple system. so, my question is; can I go to napa and buy a sensor(that they have listed for a 68 truck) and throw it in there and roll? or will my gauge be all out of whack? I would like to keep all the whack intact :P

thanks

[coop34]

I was just in your same position. You cannot use a sender for a 68 as it will not fit in the newer 350 stock location. You cannot use a newer sender that will fit the stock location because it is the wrong ohms. Your options are... Put a 68 sensor in the intake (reading may be a little off), add a resistor to your gauge to get the correct ohms for a new model sender, or machine a 68 sender to fit the stock location of the newer 350. There are probably other options, but those are the main ones that I came across when faced with the same problem. Some people have said that other model CTS's work (Volvo), but in looking at the ohm ranges, none of them will work correctly across all temperatures. After a ton of research, I just ended up having an older sender machined to fit the stock location. This is not what I wanted to do, but it works great. I can give you the name of the board member who machined mine if you are interested. It's very reasonable.

[schurg]

I'm really surprised nobody makes these things..lol. I'd be interested to know what resistor value is needed to adapt new to old, I could get that done pretty easily. also, gimme the name of the member who modifies them for fitment. I'll give him a shout as well. I'm realizing now why the PO put an autometer trio with a mechanical temp gauge in center of dash..he probably didnt want to go through the hassle..lol..thanks for info

[coop34]

I'm really surprised nobody makes them as well. As far as resistor values, I'm not sure, but you should be able to find that info. through a search of this forum. The board member that machined my sender down was brian mac. He did a great job and got it shipped out to me super quick.