33 replies to this topic

[tmsmini]

I was wondering if that type of adapter will fit the mechanical gauge.

A similar version here in the states did not fit the length of the bulb.

[pilone78]

Thank you all Guys i'll try to fit....bye bye from Italy!!!

[pilone78]

I was wondering if that type of adapter will fit the mechanical gauge.
A similar version here in the states did not fit the length of the bulb.

Infact mine is a smiths mechanical with a capillary bulb as you see in photo

[pilone78]

Mmmm ukcoop.....i think that gauges fitting kit is only for electric one......

[jaydee]

If on later minis you're likely to need a shorter filter to clear the subframe.

[Steve220]

Thanks for posting that link UKCooper.  I was going to post a link to that type of adapter.  If you fit an oil temperature gauge (mechanical or electric), the sensor needs to be in the flowing oil.  That's why the filter head adapter is a good solution.  Other suggestions such as T fittings off the oil pressure line do not put the sensor in the flowing oil and they also put the sensor out far from the block.  The result is a much lower temperature reading with quite a bit of error.  That totally negates any benefit of having the gauge.
 
It is your car and to each his own regarding gauges and customization.  Regardless, I offer the following comments on oil temperature gauges.  
 
If you race, an oil temperature gauge is a must-have item.  On a street car they will tell you little and are largely eye candy.  The oil temperature will come up slowly and typically stay in one place most of the time.  Some say "Hey, it will tell you the engine is overheating if you lose all your anti-freeze".  That is true but there are usually other signs (like steam) that tell you the car is overheating long before the oil temperature will.  Again, it's your car and you should enjoy and customize it the way you want.  Just don't expect to learn a lot from an oil temperature gauge on a street car.

Oil temp will show you when you can give the car a bit of a spirited drive. Cold oil does not protect the engine well enough and water temperature is not a good indicator.

http://www.tuneruniv...il-temperature/

[pilone78]

If on later minis you're likely to need a shorter filter to clear the subframe.

but the problem is to mount only a shorter filter? or the kit suggested by ukcooper is only for electrical gauge?

thanks for your cooperation

[dklawson]

I was wondering if that type of adapter will fit the mechanical gauge.

A similar version here in the states did not fit the length of the bulb.

 

If the expansion bulb of the mechanical sender proves to be too long for the adapter, you need to add the spacer that is sometimes necessary on the cylinder head installed gauges.  See Mini Spares part number TE5.

 

 

 

Oil temp will show you when you can give the car a bit of a spirited drive. Cold oil does not protect the engine well enough and water temperature is not a good indicator.

 

That does not contradict (and actually reinforces) my earlier statement that an oil temperature gauge has more place on a race engine than a street one.  As I said before, this is your car and you should feel free to customize it any way you want.

[pilone78]

^{thank you DK}

[jaydee]

Somerford mini's adaptor kit will fit the sender for a smiths capillary gauge.

[Steve220]

I was wondering if that type of adapter will fit the mechanical gauge.
A similar version here in the states did not fit the length of the bulb.

 
If the expansion bulb of the mechanical sender proves to be too long for the adapter, you need to add the spacer that is sometimes necessary on the cylinder head installed gauges.  See Mini Spares part number TE5.
 
 
 

Oil temp will show you when you can give the car a bit of a spirited drive. Cold oil does not protect the engine well enough and water temperature is not a good indicator.

 
That does not contradict (and actually reinforces) my earlier statement that an oil temperature gauge has more place on a race engine than a street one.  As I said before, this is your car and you should feel free to customize it any way you want.

Why do you think I was trying to contradict you? Interesting

You are right, probably best on a race car. However, most mini owners try and get more power out their engines, increasing strain etc. Personally I'd have one, but that is merely my opinion.

Edited by Steve220, 21 January 2016 - 01:47 PM.

[pilone78]

 

Mmmm ukcoop.....i think that gauges fitting kit is only for electric one......

 

 

i have written to somerfordmini for quick answer and they told me OFFICIALLY that kit (OTK001) is for an electrical oil temperature not a mechanical one.

Minispares told me that i have to buy an adpator and screw capillary bulb directly to sump.....

[dklawson]

Or... buy the Somerford adapter AND the Mini Spares TE5 adapter.  If Somerford is telling you "it's only for the electric", that suggests the hole is too shallow for the mechanical gauge's expansion bulb.  The Mini Spares TE5 adapter was made to address exactly that situation... but was originally intended for use on cylinder heads. 

 

While mounting in the sump would be ideal for the performance of the gauge, it is not something I would encourage.  Again, it's your car to do with as you see fit.  

 

Steve, sorry if my reply sounded out of place.  I read your response as encouraging the use of oil temperature gauges on street cars.

[tmsmini]

Interesting that the MPi came standard with them. I have gotten used to having one and I am adding it to our Traveller. I am thinking that on long haul trips with hours of driving, it may be of use.

I think you will find there is little agreement on what a optimal oil temp should be.

[Vipernoir]

DSN do a rather splendid filter head with a temp sender takeoff built in.