Does anyone know if a VDO CHT gauge will work with the stock head temp sensor, lets say 74 on?

No. The VDO CHT uses a thermocouple which generates a low voltage to power the gauge whereas the Cylinder head temperature sensor is a variable resistor that changes resistance value with temperature. So, no, one generates V and the other changes R, different things.

Believe it or not, I understand. Installing a mass of thermocouples at work right now.

Thank you.

It is also important to read CHT's with a probe under the spark plug.
BTW VDO cht guages are not accurate. Try a Dakota Digital.

I am so glad to hear this as my VDO CHT gauge reads 475 degrees F under hard use!

If you haven't read it yet, our wonderful FAQ section has a great article on cylinder head temperature.

http://www.914world.com/specs/JakeRabyHeadTemps.php

!

According to my customers, including the racing engineer Kevin Groot, VDO guages read high, but I'm not sure they were 125*high! You better get a real guage and make sure you're not cooking your engine.

on the same subject, anyone know what type of thermocouple VDO uses? K, N, etc.

My meter has a K thermocouple input, also have an Omega thermocouple calibrator.

Quit doing that with the titles....I'm an old man and I think I have whiplash now.....shit.