Hi Lou -
I wasn't sure where to put this comment, but since this is YOUR thread, it might go here...
Anyway - if your grounding (such that the temp gauge isn't reading correctly) is affected by paint and goes through the strap from your ZF to the frame, then you may (or may not) eventually have starting issues.
I might suggest you run a heavy ground cable from one of the starter attachment bolts to a solid ground on the chassis (mine goes up to where the engine bay brace attaches).
It is a $10 expenditure that is an easy mod, and in my opinion, you can never have too many solid grounds in your vehicle... It makes your electricals more robust.
Good luck on the brake issue - that has me puzzled. Did the brakes release when the car cooled off?
Rocky