weird temp gauge problem

[98540iguy]

I have a 1998 540i and the engine temp gauge is acting up. When you turn the car on it will go to the correct engine temp, pause for a second, then shoot to max hot. After you drive for a while it will come back down to the normal range where it should be. I know the car is not overheating and the coolant is full, I also replaced the temp sensor, what else could it be?

Jack

 

[E30m42cab]

the gauge itself is usually the problem. I've had my E30's do that, and swapping out the gauge does the job.

 

[98540iguy]

Thanks for the advice, is there any way to double check this? Are the individual gauges available for this car or do I have to buy a whole cluter? Is there anywhere I can send the cluster to have it repaired?

I have also found some info about the capacitors going bad in these, do you think that could be causing my problem?

Jack