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Mechanical Water Temperature Gauge Installation Instructions - Capillary Tube

Step-by-step instructions and figure for installing a mechanical water temperature gauge sender and capillary tube.

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This document is a service/installation procedure page (Section C: Mechanical Temperature) for installing a mechanical water temperature gauge with a capillary-tube sensor. It provides five numbered steps: routing the capillary tube through an existing or newly drilled 7/8" (22 mm) firewall hole protected by a rubber grommet; passing the tube through the firewall; removing the vehicle's existing temperature sending unit and installing a proper-size adapter and the temperature sensor with its sensor nut; securing the capillary tube along its route to avoid damage from sharp edges, moving parts, or hot components; and reconnecting the negative battery cable, running the engine, and checking for leaks. A prominent caution warns that the capillary tube is a sealed, pressurized tube filled with Ether gas and must never be cut or removed from the gauge port, and not to rotate the sensor or tube while tightening the nut. Figure 7 illustrates the mechanical water temperature gauge connections, labeling the optional grommet, capillary tube, sensor nut, optional adapter, temperature sensor, and engine block, with a footnote to use Teflon sealing tape on noted thread joints. A note states adapters for most Domestic and Asian vehicles are included in the kit, with additional adapters sold separately.

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Frequently asked questions

What size hole do I drill in the firewall for the temperature gauge capillary tube?
Drill a 7/8" (22 mm) hole through the firewall, or use an existing firewall grommet, and install a rubber grommet (purchased separately) to protect the capillary tube from chaffing.
Can I cut the capillary tube on a mechanical temperature gauge?
No. The capillary tube is a sealed, pressurized tube filled with Ether gas. Never cut the tube or attempt to remove it from the gauge port.
Do I need an adapter to install the temperature sensor?
Yes. An adapter must be used to properly seat the temperature sender in the sender hole. Adapters for most Domestic and Asian vehicles are included in the kit; additional adapters must be purchased separately.
Where should Teflon sealing tape be used?
Use Teflon sealing tape on the noted thread joints shown in Figure 7 — the sensor nut and the optional adapter.
How do I test the installation after connecting the temperature sensor?
Reconnect the negative (-) battery cable, start and run the engine, and check the gauge installation for leaks. Tighten or reseal joints as needed and retest.

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