TR2/3/3A How do I remove temp gauge capillary end from thermostat housing on TR3A?

[TuffTR250]

The thermostat housing on my TR3A is really eaten away and paper thin along the back edge. I have ordered a new housing and am trying to get the temperature gauge capillary tube end out of the housing without ruining it. As shown by the attached picture I have cut the housing around the capillary so I have a small piece to work with where I can get around the capillary end. I have been digging and digging with pointed tools trying to get the corrosion from around the capillary end, however, I still have not been able to get it to move all all. Does anyone have a recommendation on how to get it out without ruining the capillary? Thanks for the help!!


Regards,
Bob

 

[bobhustead]

The corrosion holding you back is on the nut end. I assume you have the nut out.
Bob

 

[luke44]

A dremmel with a cutting wheel looks like the answer to me.

 

[TR3driver]

That would be my approach. Cut a groove lengthwise on both sides, being very careful to not cut all the way through the aluminum. Then stick it in a nutcracker and crack it open.

 

[toysrrus]

Hi Bob,

I`m sure you`ve done this but "Lots & Lots" of "BP Blaster". Let it soak for a day or two. Try turning the nut in both directions (Tighten & Loosen). It should free things up, Eventually.

If all else fails; "Heat" the nut / thd. area.

Have Fun, Russ

 

[TR3driver]

If all else fails; "Heat" the nut / thd. area.

But keep in mind that anything over about 230F will damage the gauge movement. Rather than that, I'd just cut the tube and ship the gauge off to MoMa or West Valley to be refurbished. They'll replace the tube, bulb and nut anyway.

 

[TuffTR250]

Thanks for the responses. I have the nut out it's the bulb that won't come out. Thanks for the reminder about not overheating the bulb, since I had using heat in mind but will forget that. Is there some kind of chemical that will dissolve the corrosion without ruining the bulb? I was thinking of the acid stuff call Ospho, since I assume the corrosion is probably from the lime in the water.
Regards,
Bob

 

[mgedit]

Lime should dissolve with CLR or other household anti-scale/hardwater product, or maybe even just vinegar. Cheers, Mike

 

[TuffTR250]

I got it out!!!! I cut along one edge of that block I had cut out of the housing using a combination of air die grinder with cutting wheel and cutting wheel on dremmel. Dremmel is more easily controlled. Then I held the block with a plier and pried the block apart with a screw driver enough to free up the bulb. Thanks for the help!!
Regards,
Bob