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MG MGB Technical - Wacky Water/Oil Gauge

I've purchased and installed a new water/oil gauge for the 79 B: from Moss, the one that they used in the MGA. It's temp read out is no where close according to my IF thermometer. The gauge needle swings CC up into the oil readout, suggesting a temp of 230* or more. I read the sensor point on the head with the IR and it says 190-198 depending on the test ( with the fans switched off).
Anybody else been there, done that? Are the needles adjustible? From the back like the gas gauge?
Stephen S, you wired in here son?
I guess I could open the face and monkey with the needle, but that sounds like a Neanderthal tactic for a supposed "instrument".
Just curious, ya know. Cheers, Vic
vem myers

Take the thning into the kitchen and stick the sensor end into a pan of boiling water. Does it read 212 degrees? If not send it back!
Mike Howlett

Vern, IR instruments are sensitive to surface finish. Matt black is most accurate. Shiny - forget it.
If you do the boiling water test, correct for altitude. Not sure how high it is in Nevada.
Art Pearse

Vic-
I'm with Mike on this one. Put the sensor in boiling water and test to see if it registers 212 degrees Fahrenheit. If it doesn't, send it back! By the way, what adapter are you using to make it fit the head? Thread sizes?
Stephen Strange

THANX GUYS, GOOD ADVICE. Steve- Standard brass threaded reducer off the shelf. I'll check the threads when I do the boil test at sea level and let you know. Problem is that the auto fans, triggered by the radiator sensor bulb, and factory set I believe to go at 190*, come on precisely as the gauge hits 212*. But hey, the boil will tell. Thanx. Cheers, Vem
vem myers

This thread was discussed between 27/10/2012 and 30/10/2012

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