my 95 caravan the temprature gauge rises normaly as it heats up when it hits the normal running temp it will spike to the top for about 30-60 seconds then drops to where it should be. the mechanic says it could be the sensor don't realy know could be somthing else in the gauges causing it. don't worry about it or replace it for $87.00 does this sound right? sensor cost $7.00 at the auto store how hard is it to replace? $80 worth? I'm replacing the hoses and thurmostat this weekend and will do that to if it isn't to hard.

The temperature sensor just screws in. I believe its located near the thermostat. I'd replace the sensor first, but keep in mind the spiking gauge may indicate a short to ground someplace.

The sensor that is next to the thermostat is the one for the computer, not the gauge, and you are right, it is not that expensive, the reason they are charging you 87 to replace it is because they are charging you the list price of it, probably about 30 or so, and then a minimum half hour labor charge even though it will take about 2 minutes to replace it.

What size engine does your van have? If it is the 2.5 then the sensor for the gauge is on the head, between the #1 and #2 spark plug.

One of the two things is wrong i.e. temprature sending unit or a bubble in the coolant. Temprature sending unit is cheap around $11 from from autozone etc. $50 from Chrysler. I had the same problem and I replaced the sending unit and it is now working good.