Temperature Gauge Stuck Helpppp

[stucazzo81]

So my radiator decided to go on Friday while driving home.
I had the radiator replaced, and now my temperature gauge is stuck on 280.
The mechanics replaced 1 or 2 temp sensors, tested the wires, checked for codes and still nothing.
I even took my entire dash off when I got home from the mechanic today and pushed the needle back down, restarted the car and watched it go back up to 280.
The car is definitly not overheating.
Anyone have any suggestions?
94 3.1 3100 GA SE.
73,000 miles.

Thanks!

[rixGAphx]

Take it back to the mechanics and have them fix it.

1. The sensors are sending a bad signal.

2. Or, they used teflon tape on the sensor threads (some sensors need to ground thru the threads to the block; teflon is an insulator that prevents electrical flow. No power to gage needle = defaults to HOT).

3. Or, they got the wrong model of sensor (often (usually?) the sensor for an idiot light works opposite from the sensor for a gage).

Insist that this problem was NOT there previously and that it didn't result from the radiator episode (assuming this is the case).

On the other hand, GA dash clusters DO go bad occasionally, but it's usually several gages/lights at once.
Seems too much coincidence that your needle is stuck now.

Good luck.
-Rick

PS: In retrospect, I'm betting VERY strongly on reason #3.
I've seen it several times on different cars (tho not specifically on the GA).