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MG TD TF 1500 - 51 TD Oil Press / Oil Temp gauge

Hi all,
My TD is a March 1951 (TD/6654) and has only a single oil pressure gauge and no temperature gauges at all. I understand that a dual gauge, oil press / water temp, was a factory option later in the production run. From an originality perspective, is it legitimate to retrofit the dual gauge in my car?
Thanks,
Gerry.
Gerry Gledhill

Simple answer: "No". The dual guage wasn't an option, but rather a standard fitting on the later cars. However, a temp only gauge was available which can be mounted somewhere else (mine is in a separate plate mounted beneath the dash).

But, as most people will tell you, "It's your car, do what you like." And frankly, few would be so picky to fault you for an original style dual gauge, regardless of the year of the car.

Cheers,
Lew Palmer
Lew Palmer

Gerry, Lew is correct, I would have to look up the serial # that it was introduced. I just went through this process recently. I decided that as my early TD did not come with a temp gauge, no type would be original. I had a separate temp gauge on the left side of the dash. No way I could cut a hole for that in my new Craig Seabrook walnut dash, so I opted for the dual. I could always change it back if I wanted. (I know the wood isn't original either, but it sure looks great). George
George Butz

My 1952 TD Mark II did not have a temp gauge either. I ordered a replacement radiator cap with a motometer. I have no problem with seeing the sight glass. It looks neater than the original plain cap and "dresses up" the front end too. I want something on the car to monitor temperature. I kept the original cap if I ever have to return the car to original. Best thing is that there is no modification. Remove the original cap - screw on the motometer cap. It took all of 5 minutes.
John Masters

Gerry -- Many dealers here in the states installed a temp only gauge where the horn push was and remounted the horn push to the left of the speedo. When I got my TD it had been modified that way and I liked it. So when I got around to getting a Craig Seabrook dash I had him put the hole for the horn push in it. Also a small hole for an LED high beam indicator. Real elegant.
Cheers,
Bob
R. K. (Bob) Jeffers

Gerry

Above are correct. The Early TD's had only an oil guage. There was a optional temp guage. I don't know if it was factory, but mine is correct color and brand.

Dual guages come up on e-bay frequently. Using one will not prevent you from changing it back to the original.

I have a motometer on my radiator also, but really feel having a temp guage is worth it.

Here is a picture of my TD. The temp guage is monted to the Left of the steering wheel.

www.http://community.webshots.com/photo/425130233/1425165119036619046OEFGpJ



Bruce Cunha

Have a look at http://www.ttalk.info/FasciaL.jpg. It's TD1414 and was purchased from the TD introduction show in New York in 1950. It's unknown whether the dealer, or the factory, installed the water temperature gauge and turn signals.
Bud Krueger

Love the Traficator!!! You know, you just can't beat the '50's aftermarket accessories that they brought out! Would much rather see these then perfectly stock!
gordon lawson - TD 27667

This thread was discussed on 21/07/2006

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