Temperature Gauge Gremlins

[Torinofatblock]

I have a 95 F150, and since I've owned it, (3 years), the temperature gauge has worked about 4 times. When I bought the truck, I was told the sending unit worked, but the gauge did not. Seeing as how a gague costs about $180, I kinda let it slide and just had the system checked about once a year. Today the gauge kicked on, and of course spurred the desire in me to have a fully functional truck.

The gauge does indicate, only not very often. I would rather spend the 8 bucks on a sending unit than drop a load on a gauge. Any thoughts?

Thanks

BTW, anyone have a lead on a headliner for a 95 F150 regular cab?