TR2/3/3A TR3 gauge panel and nuts on gauges

[jfarris]

Greetings to all,
I needed to take the Ammeter out to replace an overdrive power wire (some Lucas smoke inadvertently escaped from the original one). I first tried to remove the whole center gauge panel and couldn't get enough space. Is there some type of tab or over center lock on the top that holds the top tight?
While in there, I decided to replace my TR4 fuel with a correct TR3 fuel gauge that I have. Of course, I dropped one of those very small nuts that hold the wires on the back of the gauge. Carpets and transmission tunnel are out, so no telling where it went. I temporarily used the long barrel shaped fastener. Does anyone know the size of those small nuts?
Thanks!

 

[TR3driver]

Removing the panel is a bit of a PITA. There are two wing nuts at the top (4 in all), plus you have to take the oil pressure line loose. And it's best to completely remove the temperature gauge first, so you don't take a chance on crimping and ruining the capillary tube to the bulb. Much easier IMO to remove just the ammeter. I'm not sure how easy the fuel gauge is to get out if you have the (optional) heater, but I would look into doing that with the panel still in place as well.

Sorry, don't know the size of those nuts offhand. But, I'll bet they are a weird thread, like 4 BA or something. Almost all of the Lucas electrical connections are British threads rather than SAE.

 

[sp53]

When you are in there Unhook the battery and you might find removing the glove box will give you some room, but they come out kinda difficulty also, but not as difficult as the dash panel.

 

[bobhustead]

As Randall said, the nuts are an odd size. Your happiest approach is to take out the heater.
Bob

 

[jfarris]

SP53 - I did disconnect the battery, I've had enough Lucas and Bosch smoke parties for one lifetime.
Good idea about the glovebox and heater, it was very tight in there.
Thanks for the help!

 

[Crankshaft]

Definately remove the glove box. The heater was not so much of a problem, but most definately disconnect the battery. I am going through a crisis situation right now with a damaged fuel gauge due to my laxity in disconnecting the battery.