The sending unit for the temp gage has only one wire, Green, and goes to the instrument panel. It is located on the driver's side of the engine block
The Engine coolant temp sesor (ECT) has two wires, Yellow and Black/Pink. Both wires go to the PCM. This sensor is located in the water pump. The PCM uses the signal from this sensor to control A/F ratio, ignition timing, and engine fans.

 

and the sensor on the waterpump has been the bane of my existence. Any problem that you can cause to your car with that sensor i've probably done it. I've left it unplugged, i got paint in it, I've had an intermittant connection on it and all generate different symptoms to the car

 

True, because the PCM delivers the wrong amount of fuel and spark timing if it does know the correct coolant temp.

 

ok well i know my fans are working b/c i heard them today so the one wire sensor is the problem i have but the sensor on the side of the block has 2 wires coming off it and the sensor is no good the one they tried to sell me at o'reillys doesnt have the same type of connector

 

Probably the wrong sensor is installed on the side of the block.