what is actually better the electric with a sender or the manual with the sensor?
i think mine is bad im going to get a new autometer , but im not sure what one to get. i have a manual now..
my temp gun shows a 25 to 30 degree cooler diff. than the gauge. so who runs what?

I run all mechaincal guages in mine. No unneeded drains on the eletrical system that way.

I like the electrical gauges, the draw is minimal, when mine get replaced next time they will all be digital electric. Almost every new car coming from builders are these gauges now. I also think they hold up to vibration and abuse a little better.

i run all mechanical gauges, i did not like the electric trans temp gauge at all by autometer.
i think in the future i might like to go the digital route as well like lonnie said. very precise.

Why does everyone think that factory gauges are accurate.Hook up a scanner sometime.I usually find betwee a 10 and 30 degree difference from what a new factory gauge and the actuak temp in most new cars.I run mechanical in our old cars.My 65 still has the oe temp gauge plus the mechanical.That and if you have a factory oil press.and it quits what the first thing anyone says.Hook a mechanical to it to see what the pressure really is.Rocky

ALL gauges electric or mechanical should be checked
for calibration.... I had to calibrate all the gauges
I used before testing and they are off. Boiling water
works good for temps, a known good gauge as a master
really helps for pressure....I sent in 1 gauge to
have a company calibrate it and keep it on the shelf.
If they are electric they have a scale that you use
0-5 volts to check

Temperture gauges, OEM and aftermarket should be checked and replaced as necessary I have seen as much as 40 F differences between three different brand mechanical gauges in the same pan of hot water All three company where american made and reputable The first one was a Autometer that would read 140F after running the electrical fan and water pump drive and I could put my finger in the water coming out of the upper radiator hose and not be burnt and not feel hot