[patman]

I have a used mechanical temperature gauge I'd like to install, and I don't have the instructions. It has a long 1/4" covered tube that goes to the sensor that bolts into the engine.

Here's the question: does that tubing come apart any more...or do I have to drill a hole in the firewall big enough (5/8-3/4" maybe) to thread the sender nut through? I'm guessing that it doesn't come apart (without breaking it) and I need the mondo hole.

Kinda like this:

 

[64PRONOVA]

You cannot disconnect the capillary tube. You must drill a hole big enough to fit it through and then use a rubber grommet to seal the hole with the tube sticking through it. If you cut the tube or damage it, you might as well throw the gauge away because it is ruined.

 

[patman]

That's what I figured...thanks!

 

[Crazyjake]

On my 68 I routed the capillary tube through the speedometer cable hole. Removed the firewall seal around the cable and put a rubber grommet around the speed cable, temp gage capillary and oil pressure line. Pushed the grommet into place, routed the lines and used a little RTV to seal the rest of the opening in the grommet. Not exactly a factory look but didn't look bad.

 

[chevyIIheavy]

what he said up der ^^^^

 

[64PRONOVA]

You can also buy nice rubber grommets in various sizes and drill a hole in the firewall if you want. It will look very clean when done.

 

[WILMASBOYL78]

temp gauge install..

next question...where are you going to connect it...head or intake..??? some aftermarket intakes have a provision near the t/stat housing for a connection...or use the drivers side cylinder head. They usually read a little hotter at the head..

wilma

 

[Bluesman]

I installed the bulb on mine in the front of the intake manifold, close to the thermostat. Here it is right next to the "USA" sticker.

Below and to the left, almost hidden behind the hose, is the temperature sensor for the fan relay. I think either spot would work alright.

Dave

 

[64PRONOVA]

I installed the bulb on mine in the front of the intake manifold, close to the thermostat. Here it is right next to the "USA" sticker.

That's where you want it. Putting it in the head doesn't give you as valuable information.

 

[patman]

That's where you want it. Putting it in the head doesn't give you as valuable information.

That spot on the intake is exactly where I have it installed now. Actually, I *was* planning on putting it in the head (to hide the sender tube) but while I was on the engine stand I discovered that the coolant passages in the heads were different enough that it wouldn't fit. I could get the bushing in, and the probe would go most of the way in, but it still was about 1/4" from seating properly. So...I plugged the heads instead and put my electric one in, but that one isn't working right, and now I have the mech one there instead.