I have a 98 Ranger. 3.0 V6 Manual 4x4. I had a pin hole coolant leak coming from the elbow connecting the Coolant Temp Sender (Single Wire) to the Thermostat housing. I had to remove the 5 bolts to pivot the bracket that the power steering pump and a/c pump mount to so I could replace the elbow.

After I got everything all put back together, the temp gauge stopped reading the coolant temp. I replaced the thermostat and the coolant temp sender. I ground the coolant temp sender wire and the temp gauge jumped up. I also hooked up a multi-meter to the wire and it's pulling a full load from the battery. What is wrong?

I've read this exact issue on other forums, all stemming from the leak in the elbow, but everyone stops talking when they get to this point. Any ideas?