This is an FYI that I thought may benefit others. I had my cluster gauge rebuilt and I reinstalled the cluster and the temp gauge was non-operational. I changed the sensor, checked all the wires but couldn't get it to work. When I grounded the sensor lead - the temp needle did not move as it should peg.

I took the cluster out of the car - and hooked it up to the wiring harness with wire and alligator clips. I then jumped each connection. one at a time, the hot lead , sensor and ground trying to figure out where the short was. I knew the gauge worked because the repair shop bench tested it. I still could not get the temp gauge needle to peg. Then on a whim, I reversed the alligator clips on the back of the temp gauge and grounded the sensor lead and the temp needle pegged, I was elated! I called the rebuild shop and they said it was possible that when they rebuilt the cluster that they rotated the temp gauge connections. They said the only way the needle would peg is if the temp gauge was wired correctly and all parts were operational. I then re-did the plug wiring by popping out the connectors and switching them versus taking the gauge apart and - the temp gauge works.

Thought that this experience may assist someone else with a temp gauge issue where you are fresh out of solutions - you never know, especially if you are putting in a new cluster or having yours rebuilt - depending on the year - the connection is oriented differently.