Temp gauge climbs to the max as I try starting the car. Car won't run.

I'm glad Ya got yer Mopar Running! The thing is, it's really hard to diagnose over, in my case a phone, or in others, a monitor. Everyone Here had YOUR Best interests, for You AND your Ride. Yes, ya can go Crazy chasing Ghosts, but the it's also a process of Eliminating possible issues.
It only takes a second to double check 8 thou. With Brass, not steel. I, myself, Love and Respect my Brothers Here. and will Always take any Realistic Action given by solid Advice! Glad Yer Runnin