Engine temp sensor

[marty]

Temp gauge was not registering.  Replaced the sensor w one from Autozone (TU134, said it was for my 86 Eagle).  Cross referenced it to NAPA and it came up as their #ECHTS6655 so I figure it is correct.  Replaced the old one and now it runs almost to the top of the operating zone.  Info I have is that bottom of the zone is 180, top is 242 and Hot is 260.  Came home and, using the IR sensor it showed 160 at the sensor, 158 at the top of the radiator and 147 at the bottom (outside temp was 55).  Does this just sound like a faulty sensor?  Any way to test the sensor w a multimeter? Thanks.
Marty

[AMC of Houston]

Hi Marty.   I guess you got the busted axle fixed!!   

Anyway; manual says the sending unit resistance should be Cold 353 ohms, bottom of gauge band 192 ohms, top of gauge band 73.9 ohms, Hot 45.2 ohms (from page C-92 of the MR251 manual).

[eaglefreek]

According to Napa's website, that is the correct sending unit. I would venture it's either defective or wrong part was in the box. Unless there is an issue with your gauge.