Temp Sender Frustration

[Shoebox]

I'm running the original gauges in my '51 Tudor with 12v - 6v adapter, and recent purchase Stewart Warner 12v (car is 12v) under dash 3 gauge cluster. The temp gauge install sheet shows a hex head adapter for the small diameter sender, what comes with the gauge is a small threaded bushing which does not allow the sender to extend much into the head (8ba), and leaves the sender sticking way up. I have reached out to SW and not getting much, about to order a 3/8" sender not needing adapters, had ordered a 1/2" sender, way too big. I will confess I'm challenge measuring holes with NPT threaders. Comments please guys...... Thanks

[19Fordy]

When I converted my 6V system to 12V I still kept the gauge panel operating on 6V by using a Ron Francis Constant Voltage Reducer (CVR). I also found that the OEM 6V temp sender stuck too far out of the aluminum head. Solution was to make adapters out of NPT brass fittings. To do so required the use of a lathe. Drilling out the fitting allowed the OEM sender to slide into the fitting which then screwed into the head. The threads on the brass fitting and the head are 3/8-18 NPT.

You could probably drill out the fitting by hand but, do so in very small increments as the drill bit "grabs" the brass, easily destroying the fitting as the wall becomes so thin. Best to use a lathe.

[Shoebox]

Fordy,... thank you for your input! I too am using a voltage reducer to maintain original gauge function, and the OE sender installs in my Offy head just fine. My issue is with the sender for my new 12v Stewart Warner temp gauge. The install instructions SHOW an adapter much like what you made but the gauge COMES with a threaded bushing which doesn't work. Going to order a 3/8" NPT sender that SW lists, but appears to be a special order.

[19Fordy]

I hope you are able to get that "special order" SW fitting for your gauge. If not, you may have to resort to making your own adapter by cutting and soldering 2 brass fittings together. Be sure and let us know how you solve this problem, including photos.

[Shoebox]

........... Will do!

[Shoebox]

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So, I'm reporting back on my SW temp sender problem and happy to report the third time was the charm. As mentioned before, I found a description for a SW temp sensor that was for my gauge temp range and was listed as correct thread size & pitch, it was not stocked or was special order. I located one on that auction site and got it today and it fits nicely.

[19Fordy]

That is indeed GOOD NEWS. Thanks for reporting back as your experience will help others wanting to install aftermarket gauges. Also, thanks for posting photos with part #. However, when I typed in that part # it does not show up. If ok, please post the Ebay listing for purchasing that sender. Thanks. Jim

[supereal]

Be aware that many senders require a ground connection, particularly those with pipe thread shanks. Using Teflon tape to seal the threads will often make the sender seem defective.

[Shoebox]

Originally Posted by 19Fordy

That is indeed GOOD NEWS. Thanks for reporting back as your experience will help others wanting to install aftermarket gauges. Also, thanks for posting photos with part #. However, when I typed in that part # it does not show up. If ok, please post the Ebay listing for purchasing that sender. Thanks. Jim

I had to go back on my notes, what led me to this sender was the SW original part number, which is: 362AJ-D. That is the number to search,...they have more of them. Apologies for the unintended misinformation of showing the box it came in.

[19Fordy]

Thanx Shoebox for posting that excellent info. You did good!