Clois,
The only way teflon could affect an electrical gauge is if it acted like insulation between the sender and the block.... i.e. preventing, or causing intermittent ground for the sender.
Some apply really too much teflon tape to the threads. As most threads are tapered and will tighten up securely without the use of tape, too much tape could prevent a metal to metal contact through the tape.
Where is your
oil temp sender located in the pan? On my car, there are two drain hole plugs, and I put my mechanical sender bulb in one. I noticed what appeared low
oil temps when the car was moving, but rose to a "normal" temp when the car sat still, as in bumper to bumper traffic.... A fellow club member told me to wrap the sender with a few layers of aluminum foil to insulate it. Works like a champ! On your electrical sender, you will have to prevent shorting out the wire terminal, but give this a try to see if it works for you. I was going to try the IR test, but tried this first and never attempted it.
- Jim -
PS I see pete beat me to the "submit" button..
