Over heating question

[Sparkalinda]

My old 76 300D has been (based on the gauge reading) running quite hot lately. If I give the gauge cover a bit of a tap it jumps back down to a more “normal� running temp or 175 on the gauge.

At times the gauge can also be quite erratic and bounces all over the place.

Is this a sign of cooling system troubles or just a old tired out gauge.

Oh! and the system had a over haul two years ago including a new thermostat.

Thanks[8D]

[jdc1244]

Some may argue it’s a tad early but a coolant flush and refill may help. [:)]

[new2mbenz]

Sounds like the needle is just sticky if you can tap it and make it go down. Otherwise the most likely culprit is a bad ground, perhaps between the engine and body.