since i bypassed the gear selector do i need to find another R/W terminal or wire to splice into...i see on my diagram that the R/W is connected into the system near the shifter switch and im not sure

 

Yes , you will need to connect to a red/white to make it work again .

 

and i can test the light by grounding the blu/w right?

 

Yes

 

cool thanks!

 

Just test that you have power to the red/white wire leading into the indicator with the key on,engine off.If you do,then no problem as the blue /white wire from the hot light sensor completes the ground path if/when it reaches 221 degrees (F) triggering the warning light.

 

k, ill check for power first