[WillEd]

What could it mean when my temperature gauge is pegged in the red when the car is started up after it has been sitting for a while? Any ideas are much appreciated!

 

[sbaert]

Bad temp sending unit or faulty electrical ground issue.

 

[WillEd]

Bad temp sending unit or faulty electrical ground issue.

Where is the sensor located? Is it on top by the valve cover? I recently found a dead animal on top of the valve cover toward the fire wall, maybe that had something to do with the problem.?
Thanks

 

[sbaert]

Yes, the sender is in that vicinity. Keep in mind there are 3 separate temp senders. Gauge unit (single wire), aux fan temp sender & ECU temp sender.

The temp gauge sender unit should look like this (M104 pictured, your M103 is very similar if not identical)

 

[WillEd]

Thanks I'll check it out