overheat

hello, i'm new to this so please have patience. i have a 1996 cavelier and the temp. gauge keeps going to the red zone(way overheating), however it's not steaming, the coolant level is fine and i can't seem to find the problem. in short does anyone have any hints or maybe a suggested manual or specific site to troubleshoot(besides this one of course)
thanks trace.

collant temp sensor, clog somewhere in the line, air pocket, thermastat are all possible causes

Like said above, I would replace the heat sensor or coolant temp. sensor. Maybe evan just remove and clean the coolant temp sensor, it should be in your radiator possibly near the bottom on the passenger side. If you do take it out to clean it drain your radiater fluid first. Get a manual and follow directions so you dont mess up your thermostat or leave air in the system. Its actually cake to do so dont let me make it sound difficult.

I would also suggest a good flush and fill. You may consider changing to the old green antifreeze as well. There have been a lot of issues with the red "Dex-cool". A lot of times you will find a rust colored jelly under the cap. This can create a lot of problems. I have 3 cars that use Dex-cool. Only one developed these problems. I maintain them all the same so who knows?? I have changed 2 over to the green and had no more problems. When the last one comes due for service it will be using the green as well.