Temperature Gauge

[km-ri]

My temperature gauge starts midway on the gauge upon power up, prior to actually running. Once started it jumps up to the upper limit in minutes. I suspect a faulty device, not sure if it is sending unit or gauge. Any ideas on how to identify the culprit?

 

[km-ri]

Disconnected from sender and gauge arm now stays pegged hot. Connected same scenario. I put around 4 hrs on it today. Dead short?

 

[km-ri]

Well I disassembled the cluster, readjusted the needles and all was well; for a few days. Gauges are off again. Anyone install a separate temp gauge? I can check fuel with the tried and true dip stick. Cost to purchase new gauge cluster?
Thanks

 

[kenMG42]

Take a look at the ground for the panel. Also the 12VDC.
By "adjusting" how did you adjust?

No ground sends a guuage to full scale, grounded it will read zero or cold or whatever at the low end.