Tempature gauge removal

[dluyk]

Well I'd rather wrap Christmas gifts then remove a wiring harness. I have it all removed and the gauges out except the Temperature gauge. My question is this...how do I disconnect the gauge from the engine. I've removed the small square nut - but before I tug and break anything....do I need to remove the nut attached to the engine block. Cuz I've tried to remove that bolt and she ain't budging.  Thanks for your insight.

[Rus Curtis]

If you're describing an original temp gauge, then the bulb you're working on (sending unit) may be stuck.  It should slide out but is connected to a delicate tube that sends the temp info to the gauge.  There have been posts of that tube being snapped during removal.

Sorry, but I simply don't have any experience removing a stuck temp bulb. 

I can think of a couple of off-the-wall things I may try but hopefully, a better sound idea is posted here.

[dluyk]

It feels like it wants to come out..but I pull it about 1/2 inch from the engine block and gives me resistance..almost like theirs a spring catching (just a description). I would say this is an original part.

[Rus Curtis]

The only thing I can think of that would be there is crud/gunk/rust.�

Is your engine running or dismantled?

Here's an image of mine before install:

Lots of penetrant when it sticks then gently in and out.� I wouldn't force it.�

[1955CJ-5]

I agree with the crud/gunk assessment.

Keep working it gently and hopefully you will be successful..


My gauge has the same square nut that you describe, and the larger adapter in the head...

You can see we did not remove the adapter when the engine was rebuilt, yet the gauge had been removed...I re-used it so it survived

[aboyandhisdog]

Yep, corrosion in the head around the sensor is what is keeping the bulb in there.  You'll need to dissolve it or try to chip it out of the way.  If you break the bulb, you'll have to buy a new gauge.

[dluyk]

Thanks for your insight. A little squirt of PB blaster and out it came. Thanks all. So far the tear down is coming along. Front grill/fenders off, wire harness out - in the next few days the hood, windshield, seats, gas tank are all coming off. Just a few snapped bolts, but otherwise still having fun.

[Rus Curtis]

Excellent!