Guage Face Condensation

Doug E · 07-28-2002, 11:42 AM

I've never had any problem with guage face condensation on any of my guages before, but now after having "downgraded" to the numerical temp guage I have a condensation problem with that particular guage.

No problems with any of the other guages so I am assuming it has something to do with me having taken that guage and broken the factory seal.

Any solutions out there for this problem?

BTW, I'm referring to condensation on the inside of the guage and not the outside which can easily be wiped clean.

TIA.

RoninLB · 07-28-2002, 03:46 PM

not saying what you should do, but I drilled a small itty bitty hole in lower area of gauge case to solve my condensation.....Ron

zuerchers · 07-28-2002, 04:31 PM

hey ron, can you describe where you drilled the hole? maybe a picture? thanks

RoninLB · 07-28-2002, 04:43 PM

Zu...the "case" is the outer gauge part/housing that fits thru the dash hole..the area I drilled is at the bottom of the case as it sits in the dash..this keeps dirt out..I looked inside the case to see where the drill bitt may hit someyhing inside. I used a bitt smaller than 1/8 and drilled carefully w/a new bitt...I could post a pic if needed..I live on a sandbar, 1,000ft. from the Atlantic so if it works for me at least give it a try..then let us know what happened..........Ron

Doug E · 07-28-2002, 05:40 PM

Ummmm, good idea Ron.

Don't see what it can hurt since since the case isn't visible once the guage is pushed back in the dash.

marcesq · marcesq's Garage

I would think that the hole would have to be drilled far enough away from the front of the guage to clear the thickness of the dash . . Ron??

Doug E · 07-28-2002, 07:07 PM

Yes, I would agree it needs to be in the part of the case hanging out on the inside of the dash.

RoninLB · 07-28-2002, 07:16 PM

I don't remember the exact reason for the hole..something with letting the insides breathe due to temp difference/humidity, but it works for me..my brother, who lives in a desert climate/LA does not experience fogged gauges......Ron

RoninLB · 07-28-2002, 08:54 PM

DougE/Zu/Marc...not for nothing, but maybe the Pelican Research Foundation should investigate putting a permanent vacuum seal on the face/glass/plastic..to eliminate any H2O vapor in contact w/inside ........Ron

zuerchers · 07-28-2002, 09:08 PM

thats a good idea...what was the number to the PRF again?

Wayne 962 · Wayne 962's Garage

Try applying a vacuum to the inside of the gauge (through one of the light holes) while you're enclosed in a very, very dry place (like your closet).

Also try heating the gauge up (no more than 105 degrees or so) and then reassembling it tight when it's warm.

-Wayne