6 replies to this topic

[Mat]

I have a Smiths water temperature gauge on which the capillary bulb has split, around the solder. Obviously, all the ethanol has left the building; does anyone know of anywhere that could repair this and refill the ethanol?

[Spider]

Speedy Cables is one that springs to mind.

 

Here's a list of a few others;-

 

http://oldcarservice...rument-repairs/

[Mat]

Lovely, ta. Think I'll have a go myself first, but they'll be good back-up!

[Spider]

Here's a guide if you need it;-

 

http://www.ply33.com/Repair/tempgauge

[carbon]

Mat,

 

If you're going to try and refill a capillary 0-110 water temp gauge then use di-ethyl ether. Ethanol won't give correct temp readings.

 

But not easy to do.

[tiger99]

If using diethyl ether, please observe ALL required safety precautions. It is highly explosive when mixed with air, and things like operating a light switch, picking up the phone, or even electrostatic sparking generated by the carpet can set it off. Think petrol, only 100 times more sensitive.

For health and safety reasons I would be surprised if temperature gauges made since about 1980 would have contained anything as dangerous, but I may be wrong, if they had elaborate safety precautions in the factory. I would suggest that it is really not something to mess with at home unless you are fully trained in handling the stuff. A professional job will be much cheaper than the possible damage to lives and property.

I am sure that my old Rover P4 used alcohol in its temperature gauge. Every other car I have owned was electronic.

[Mat]

Carbon,
I should have written di-ethyl ether; I looked into it a long while ago and could only remember ethanol! Thanks.

Tiger99,
Having looked at it this afternoon, I think you are probably right. I'll stash the gauge for now, I imagine a replacement will be easier and cheaper overall. Thank you!