I know that my engine is not overheating, but right now I honestly cannot afford even the cheapest of parts, so I'm wondering --- If I'm not getting a temp reading on the guage, but my fan is still kicking on and off like it seems it should, do I need to worry?

 

I certainly wouldn't risk it as I'm way too paranoid about things like that... at least when it comes to my car.

Have you figured out why the quage isn't reading? You might wanna check (if you haven't already) that the wire to the temp. sensor is still connected. The sensor is located under the oil filter right next to the oil pressure sensor.