Gauges misted up

[JSV798]

Every time I take my 1978 SC out for a drive the oil/fuel level gauge and the oil temp/pressure gauges mist up. On closer examination when the mist has disappeared after garaging there appears to be small moisture droplets on the inside of the glass. Any ideas on how I can get rid of this moisture without dismantling?

[ossiblue]

What you describe is very common. Moist air enters the gauges from the trunk and condenses on the inside of the glass. Short of completely sealing the points of entry on the gauges or making the air inside the trunk moisture free, I know of no solution. If you have moisture droplets inside the glass, you might be able to get rid of it by removing the gauge and blowing warm air through the holes for the gauge lights.

I'm sure others have creative solutions, so let them reply.

[NYNick]

People have put those little moisture packets that come in things inside the back of the gauges. I hear it works but mine do the same thing. No big deal.

[john walker's workshop]

Welcome to one of the quirks of 911 ownership.

[chrisbruck]

Happens on my tach, not the other gauges though... vintage 911 ownership. You get used to it.

[OldSpool87]

And if you’re lucky you will hear a lone random faint “tick” every once in a while.

[GH85Carrera]

Just run the air conditioner more. It will dry out the instruments. It only time I have ever seen mine mist up was on along road trip in 60 degree rain. I did not want to run the AC since it was cool already.

[canamfan]

You'll notice when you have the instrument lights on, the mist goes away, most likely from the heat generated

[Marwil]

Originally Posted by OldSpool87

And if you’re lucky you will hear a lone random faint “tick” every once in a while.

Yeah. WTF is that? Seems to appear in cooler weather, somewhat like a click/pop from the gauge area. I actually feel relieved when it goes off, sort of like the universe continues to unfold as it should. Very analog…

[Bob Kontak]

Originally Posted by Marwil

Yeah. WTF is that? Seems to appear in cooler weather, somewhat like a click/pop from the gauge area. I actually feel relieved when it goes off, sort of like the universe continues to unfold as it should. Very analog…

Like an Interstellar worm hole opening? Like the click eradicates the mist on the gauges?

Just checking, Bro.

[RSBob]

Use the desiccant packets that come in pill bottles. You may be able to slip the small cloth-like bag ones right in the back. I have used them for years with good results, not perfect, but good.

Originally Posted by OldSpool87

And if you’re lucky you will hear a lone random faint “tick” every once in a while.

Love that noise! Only in a 911.

[Goth]

Originally Posted by OldSpool87

And if you’re lucky you will hear a lone random faint “tick” every once in a while.

I'm pretty sure that's the clock winding up. It somehow makes me smile too...

[Marwil]

You know, Bob might be on to something with the wormhole thing. It’s like every time we settle into these old girls we’re traveling back in time.

On the gauge mist thing, out of respect to the OP’s original concern, it happens with mine too. If you live in a coolish, dampish climate (like the UK) you might see it occur fairly often. Is the hood seal or the cowl seal in good condition? If you don’t feel water droplets in the area arounge the gauges I would just drive the car and enjoy it.