Hey guys I just got a 2006 Ranger XLT 3.0L. It runs great. The only problem is the temperature gauge is not working properly. I'll start it in the morning and it reads cold for about 30 seconds and then it goes up to the halfway mark and just stays there. I have never seen it move after that. Even if I stop somewhere for 30-45 minutes it will still be in the same spot when I start it.

Any suggestions on how to fix this?

 

With the ignition on locate the engine coolant temperature sensor. Should have a red with white stripe and a black with white stripe wire at the connector. Disconnect the sensor connector and jump the two wires together. The gauge should deflect full scale (hot). If so, I'd replace the temp sensor. If not, jump the red with white stripe wire to chassis ground. The gauge should deflect full scale (hot). If so, check the black with white strip wire and its ground.