Boyd
Temperature rise depends on amount of flow, pressure & time at pressure. What you are looking for is a noticeable difference of temperature between the pressure line going to the valve and the tank line. If the relief is opening or there is a leak in the valve stack the tank line temperature will rise vs pressure line.
Same thing with the pump, if it is slipping or bypassing internally the pump housing will get warmer than the inlet hose relatively quick.
Gauge size? I suspect this would operate at 2500 PSI or less but would recommend 3000 PSI for a little safety margin. If you have a 2500 use it. Just feather the controls to what the pressure does.
Hopefully my responses answer your questions
Your responses are most helpful.
What pressure (or other factors) can I expect the gauge to tell me? What should I be looking for?
Thanks again.