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"
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