Installing Mech Water Temp Gauge

I'm wanting to install a Mechanical Water Temp Gauge. My '99 CVPI has the aluminum crossover at the front of the engine, I'm thinking about drilling and tapping there for the sender bulb. Has anyone tried this? Is there an alternate location to get a good temp reading on the 4.6 head? My gauge has 6' of tubing from bulb to gauge. I plan on mounting it on the "A" Pillar.