Temp. Gauge on 98 Escort

Temp gauge is burried past hot when engine is hot or cold. Flushed radiator,replaced thermostat and temp. sensor. No luck,any suggestions?

I'd have to say you might have a bad gauge. It seems as though you have ruled out pretty much anything else. Looks like they are no longer available from Ford so it might be time to go Boneyard hunting. MM.