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 Do capillary temp gauges just quit?

 Created by: bikewiz
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 Posted: Aug 24, 2015 10:17PM
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AU

I think they can also shake a screw out inside the guage on the link that operates the needle.
I would at least pull it apart and have a look before deciding on a new guage.

 Posted: Aug 24, 2015 04:19PM
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US

I think replacement is the choice it isn't vintage by any means I installed it 2 years ago. Just didn't last very long....

 

 

 Posted: Aug 24, 2015 03:01PM
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if there is a crack somewhere in the tube the ether will have escaped

it can be re-ethered for very little money, but it is easiest to have this one rebuilt, or simply buy a new one (price is almost the same)

 Posted: Aug 24, 2015 03:01PM
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US

They can "just fail" if the capillary tube vibrates and fatigues the solder joints or if the protecive spring is damaged and the tube rubs through.

They can be repaired.  However, fixing it is a decision that you have to weigh.  Dual gauges of the type you have are not considered rare.  Therefore, the repair costs are often very close to the purchase price for a new unit.  Most people reserve repairs for more rare gauges like those in T-series MGs.  

That being said, if you like DIY repairs and are willing to attempt the repair yourself, there is a method I have used to repair about 1/2 dozen such gauges.  See the web site linked below.

//www.ply33.com/Repair/tempgauge

The steps on that page are very effective for DIY repairs.  The only thing I do differently is use dry ice for the cooling bath instead of the salt/water bath mentioned in the article.

Doug L.
 Posted: Aug 24, 2015 01:23PM
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US

I have a Smiths dual oil pressure/capillary temp guage, the temp gauge isn't working. The car comes up to operating temp on the stock 3 pod gauge and the top hose is warm but the capillary gauge isn't moving. The connection to the block isn't leaking or broken,do they just quit and if they do, can they be fixed or do I need to buy another.

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