Temp Sending OEM vs. Parts Store in 68 Charger

[VTMopar]

I recently finished a lengthy restoration of my '68 Charger.   The temp gauge was reading very high (220 plus) whereas my laser gun on the housing (and radiator and hoses) was about 30 plus degrees cooler.   I replaced the temp sending unit -- no change.   I also bought a new gauge and installed it -- no impact.  

After some research here on the site, I found that the temp sending units from most parts stores are not "mopar compatible" and will read high.   One post suggested installing a 15 ohm resister.   Well, after some calling around, I was able to locate an original mopar unit in a small town Chrysler dealer just north of me...... I installed it and     Now the gauge reads in the 185 to 190 range where it should be....

So - lesson learned:      Research DodgeCharger.com site BEFORE spending $$ on a new gauge!   Plus - its a pain to pull the cluster!   While sometimes it takes a while to find the right information in older posts, this site is a treasure trove full of valuable information.  

Thanks to all who contribute....

VT Mopar


 

[VegasCharger]

Glad you got what you were looking for.

Love your 68

[Mopar Nut]

Good to know, nice looking 68!

[John_Kunkel]

One post suggested installing a 15 ohm resister.  

Hopefully the electrical experts here will correct my thinking but I don't think a fixed resistor will correct the error in a variable resistor like a sending unit.