Date: Mon, 17 Jul 1995 12:48:45 -0400 (EDT)
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@vanagon.com>
From: Gary Clayton <coyote@nando.net>
Subject: Problem w/temp gauge
I recently put a GEX engine in my '76 Camper - 2L FI, solid lifters.
Last weekend I turned 1000 miles, so: changed oil, adjusted valves, and
torqed heads.
This weekend I decided to install the new gauges. The oil pressure was
an easy decision - replaces the stock sensor. For oil temp, I found 3
choices: 1)replace oil dipstick 2)replace oil drain plug 3) use T-fitting
at oil pressure sensor. I chose #3.
First I ran wires from the engine compartment to the dash, then mounted
the gauges.
When I went to install the T-fitting with temp sensor in the side and
dual-pole pressure sensor in top, I quickly realized it wouldn't fit.
There is engine tin about 1 1/2 inches above the stock pressure sensor
with a rubber booty in it. I went to the hardware store and bought a 6
inch nipple. This got everything up where it had clearance, but will
make getting the distributor cap off a little harder.
The oil pressure gauge seems to be working. From cold start, the
pressure goes to about 40psi, then levels at 25-30 after 5 min.
When I come to a stoplight, or am sitting idling, the guage reading drops
to 5-10psi and the dummy light comes on. I believe this is due to the 6
inch nipple I had to use - at idle the oil is not getting up there !?
If I tap the accel. the gauge goes back up.
The oil temp gauge never moves! I tested it by unscrewing it from the
T-fitting (leaving the gauge wire attached and wrapping a bare wire
around the threads connected to ground). I boiled water and hurried out
and dipped the sensor in the bowl. The gauge went to 180 - seems OK, it
had to cool a little on my walk from kitchen to garage. So the only
thing I can figure is the oil is not getting up the 6 inch nipple to the
sensor to heat it. I drove 40 min. and still no reading. Now I'm
wondering what happens to the air in the nipple? If there is an air
pocket, the pressure gauge might still work - air can press a diaphram as
easy as oil can - but the temp gauge would not - the air would never get
as hot as the oil.
Now I guess I will buy a different sensor - one that mounts in the oil
drain plug would ensure that the sensor was getting contact with oil.
Any comments on my theory?
-gary
coyote@nando.net Gary Clayton '76 Campmobile "Rocinante"