new to me 1998 jimmy sle/ no engine temp gauge

i just got a 98 gmc jimmy sle, there is a problem with the engine temp gauge. it dosen't work. the guy i bought it from said that the raditor was recently replaced and the mechanic broke a "clip" durring the process. just wondering how i would find out what it was that needs to be replaced. getting ready for a road trip and a little worried about a total cluster F waiting to happen. thanks

I don't know about the clip you're talking about but the temp sensor is on the left side of the motor. If you drive it hot this can melt. I hope that's not what happened.