How hard do I need to wish to move up to 2 stars instead of a one 1 (newbie)

I replaced my temp gauge with a Cyberdyne digital gauge and had to disconect the the factory sensor ( the one on the right and below the thermostat ) and replaced the sensor itself . so now the auto trans won't go into overdrive , anyone know how to trick it so that it thinks theres still a hot sensor there ?  89 TSi Having a digital gauge shows some very intresting temperature patterns , see my other post on them ( Digital temp. patterns )

I am modifying a header panel to look like same panel on 924 turbos or 924GTS's. I figure it should bring in some more air....I still have some finish grinding to do as well as fit the actual 924 turbo grills into each location. I figure since our cars look very similar to the 944, that this mod may look good.   http://photos.yahoo.com/bc/i_8praisit/vwp?.dir=/My+Photo+Album&.src=ph&.dnm=headerpanel.jpg&.view=t&.done=http%3A//photos.yahoo.com/bc/i_8praisit/lst%3F%26.dir=/My%2BPh

i'm pondering KYB replacement struts and maybe a lowering spring set such as the Suspension Tech 1" kit.  anybody here done anything similiar?  what did you use?  can i stick with stock tire size if i lower it an inch or will i have to go lower profile?  what are the chances of scrubbing on the front if i'm running an 8" rim?   thanks, Brandon