Because of the location of the coolant temp sensor on BackinBlack's truck, it's always a better move to take the alternator out. Fortunately, it's not much of a pain. However, accessing that sensor is still tough and damage can be done to it very easily due to proximity of an intake bolt and the nearby heater core outlet hose. A long socket does very well on that temp sensor as opposed to an open or even closed box wrench.

I'd suggest picking up a new temp sensor at this point. At best it works and you know, at worst it doesn't and you have a backup sensor but have a continuity problem.

 

94-97 Have two sensors. 98 and up only have one.

 

thank you dhvaughan you would be correct lol. finally found some more time to get back in there. pulled the wire and connector off the sensor and took the female prongs out of the plastic connector they sit in. put the plastic piece back on and put the prongs back into place making sure everything was tight and the prongs were all the way in. plugged it back in and now it works fine, i guess one of the female ends was pulled back a little and it wasnt getting contact

 

picked up a new sensor in part of trying to solve the problem. for the 12 dollars that the sensor was its well worth it like you said. even if that wasnt the actual problem in the first place now it has a lifetime warranty and hopefully i wont have to be squeezing my fingers down in there again any time soon lol