temp gauge problem, PLEASE HELP

[desertKAdrifter]

ok i have this problem with the temp gauge in my car. The needle will run normal until i turn the ac on then it just spikes instantly about 1/4 inch hotter. Also when im at idle i will play with the window switch and the needle will also jerk around as i apply load on the window switch. im guessing its an electrical problem with the cluster. also the speedo dont work.
Anoother thing is that when the car reads hot i turn it off, wait about 3 seconds, turn it back on and the thing will be reading normal again.:wtf:

[camaro379ss]

sounds like you may have a short.

[s13-ghost]

sounds like my problem keep us updated

[Syrus33]

i'm having the same issue, mine jumps around when pressing the brakes, using the turn signals or hazards, its all kinds of weird

[Pro ViZIon]

Definately electrical. Check your alternator out for appropriate voltage.

[Syrus33]

my voltage is steady at 14 drops to 13.92 for a second then back to 14

[camaro379ss]

not a battery problem a harness/wiring problem on that circuit.

[Sileighty_85]

get a quality aftermarket temp gauge, The stock one is garbage anyway

[camaro379ss]

^this is true

[desertKAdrifter]

yeah ill be buying some gauges. but still wont the car run shity if the ecu thinks the car is hot.

[SinGarage]

yeah ill be buying some gauges. but still wont the car run shity if the ecu thinks the car is hot.

There are 2 seperate sensors. One for the gauge and another for the ECU.

[desertKAdrifter]

if i just yank the stock sensor out will the aftermarket screw right in or do i have to buy the hose kit?

[desertKAdrifter]

I think i fixed the problem. The ground screw for the dash harness was loose. The cluster wasnt properly grounded and thats why it would jerk everytime i turned something on like the ac or the window motor.This screw is located on the drivers side kick panel, where the fuses are. You have to take that whole corner panel out to find the screw, its right next to the door. Anyways i tighten that screw up and put everything i had taken apart in the car and started it. Then i started playing with the ac and windows and the needle stayed put.:w00t: The speedo and odometer still dont work but they probably fried when they got ungrounded. Now i just have to test on the freeway in the middle of the day with the ac full blast.