temp. gage broken

Hey all,I posted here a while back and you guys were really helpful. If anyone knows what this is, I could sure use your advice...1996 xj, 97k, 4.0. I replaced the coolant temperature sensor, hoping it would help my temp. gage start reading again. It didn't work...in fact, now I have a check engine light on. Do you think I have a bad wire or is it possible it's the gage itself? Thanks!jc

Find out what your "engine light" is on for(code). A 97 XJ's coolant sensor did 2 things, one-operate your temp gauge, the other was to tell the PCM what tem the coolant was at(block temp). If you have a code for engine temp above or below spec, then I would have to say you either got a bad sensor, or you have a wiring issue. I suggest to clear the codes, reinstall the other(old) sensor and see if you get a light. If not you might have a bad guagu or a stuck open T-stat. The T-stat, you can remove the 2 bolts from the housing and remove the t-stat. YOu should NOT be able to see ANY light through the valve, if so, replace it with a new gasket.

Thanks, gtmud...very helpful! Will definitely check on the t-stat..that may well be the problem. Noticed a lot of coolant leakage around the t-stat area. Take care. -jc