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Tips
Tips

TR2/3/3A TR3 Seats and Temp Gauge

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frank33

Freshman Member
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Hello, I'm just getting started on bringing a 59 TR3 back on line. I'm in search of a temperature gauge, seat rails and seats. thanks in advance, fjc
 
Aloha Frank,

Seats components are available from Moss and probably also from Victoria British or The Roadster Factory. E-bay is also a good source to look for these parts. Hemmings Motor News can usually be found in most mall book stores, it lists lots of smaller parts suppliers that could be helpful to you.

If you still have the temperature gauge, there are several places to get it repaired such as Nisonger Automotive. An alternate is to use an electric gauge from a TR 4, but you will also need to add a voltage stabilizer to the circuit. The voltage stabilizer is available from Moss, etc for about $15.

Safety Fast,
Dave
 
Finding some decent seats to be recovered may be your best bet -- upholstery kits available are quite good but I believe there have been some issue with internal components... in particular quality of springs.

Some (e.g. me) use modern built-up foam in lieu of springs -- others feel this is not a satisfactory alternative.

The correct gauge for a 59 will include the tube and bulb -- a pricey gadget to rebuild hence working examples may also be dear.

The electric TR4 gauge was mentioned -- this would not match the other TR3 gauges, however late TR3s used an electric gauge and sending unit... these come up on eBay from time to time and would give you a matching gauge assuming that absolute originality is not your goal.
 
Stay away from the AM seat springs (unless like Superman you have buns of steel) If there is anyway to rebuild the old seats you had best get to it!!! These are getting really rare to find in any condition nowdays. Early tr4 seats and runners are a good swap if you can find them(good luck!!)
MD(mad dog)
 
You can use an early TR4 Temp gauge (with voltage stabilizer, as stated.) To make it look correct, simply remove the bezel and the flat glass from the TR4 gauge and use the convex glass from your TR3's gauge.
 
Hey thanks a bunch for the tips... sorry didn't respond earlier... family issues

I'll probably send off the gauge to be re-built and i'm just watching out for seats... one of the two i have is in ok shape and may serve as a template for a good upholstry guy i know

thanks again.. i'll be checking in from time to time

fjc
 
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