Couple of quick Qs re my S3

[teamlines]

Hi all

Couldn't find anything about either of these topics in the other forums so thought i'd start a thread... 2 niggly issues I'm trying to sort on my S3:

1. The backlight in the oil pressure gauge isn't working. Gauge works fine, just no backlight. Obviously not a problem during the day but as I'm using her as my only car at the moment (surprisingly easy to do I'm finding) and therefore driving a fair amount at night I could really do with it. I haven't properly investigated it yet but wondered if anyone knew whether this is down to a dodgy connection or blown bulb and the best way to remedy it (if not replacing the entire unit)

And number 2...

2. The rubber seals that run along the tops of the doors (and create a "weather tight" seal between the top of the door and the window) and very perished. I've order some new seals. Can anyone recommend a good adhesive to use?

Cheers!

Will

[Scoobimax]

I'm no expert, but the gauge sounds like a bulb to me if all other gauges are lit. If they're all out I'd start looking at the dimmer switch next to the bonnet release under the right hand dash. Mine had a dodgey connection resulting in all dial backlights out. I drove for 18 months like that until I was guided to the dimmer switch. And on the 19 month - let there be light and so it was!!!

Adhesive wise I have no idea, sorry.

[phillpot]

No 1 as Max says, probably nothing more than a blown bulb?

No 2 I used Evo-Stik contact adhesive. If I was doing it again I might look at using something like this ? Used some at work, it really does stick like st to a blanket

Edited by phillpot on Saturday 20th October 10:03

[teamlines]

Hi both
Thanks for that. Yes all the other gauges work fine (lights included). Just the oil pressure one that's ropey. Any idea how easy it is to replace the bulb?
Thanks again!
Will

[junglieD]

Hi Will, it's very easy to replace the bulb fortunately although a bit fiddly as always. You need to access the back of the oil px gauge where you will see 2 or 3 spade connectors and a black plastic bulb holder protruding. Don't worry about the spade connectors (they send the signal and will be fine if it operates correctly). If I recall, the bulb holder has red and black wires going into it whereas the others will be a multitude of colours.

Anyway:
1) prise the bulb holder out of the gauge while leaving it in situ. Will require 'wiggling' as you pull it out.
2) remove the bulb, check if it is indeed blown or damaged, then replace with a like model from Halfrauds/local motorfactor.
3) Check correct operation.
4) press bulb holder back into position at the rear of the gauge.

The only caveat is that I'm unsure of the access available on an S3.... mine is an S2 and the swoop of gauges makes it fairly easy.

Regards, Dave

[Barkychoc]

Does the oil pressure gauge ever do anything apart from give false readings and be a complete pain in the arse?!

[teamlines]

Hi Dave

That's excellent, thanks. Although I have a feeling getting access could be a complete bar steward! I will find out when I get round to tackling it.

Yeah, never sure about what the gauge is telling me. It always sits nicely around the 50 psi mark when hooning it around, drops to about 30-40 when idling. But who knows what's actually going on?!!

Thanks all again
Will

[phillpot]

.... and if something went wrong how long till you noticed? especially at night even if (poorly) illuminated

I've added a low oil pressure warning light to my car, the damage may be done by the time that comes on but might just prevent totally wrecking an engine if, for example, sump plug fell out ?

[teamlines]

That's a good point, well made. Would be interested to hear how you went about installing the warning light....

Will

[TVR TELL]

Hi, Can you let me know were you got the rubber seals that run along the tops of the doors from as I need to replace mine.Thanks

[phillpot]

Mine came from Pheonix trim

Part No. IRS 1656 EP J

You'll need to do a bit of careful cutting at the quarterlight end.

[teamlines]

TVR TELL said:

Hi, Can you let me know were you got the rubber seals that run along the tops of the doors from as I need to replace mine.Thanks

I got them from David Gerald TVR

http://www.davidgeraldtvr.com/

Can't remember how much they were, not terribly expensive. I was also after the rubber seals that run along the edge of the targa panels but apparently they're no longer available... Will have to be a refurb job on those!

Will

[teamlines]

phillpot said:

I've added a low oil pressure warning light to my car

I'm thinking of adding a warning light to my s3....could I ask where you got the t piece and pressure switch? Out of interest where did you mount the light?

Cheers

[phillpot]

teamlines said:

could I ask where you got the t piece and pressure switch? Out of interest where did you mount the light?

We use stuff like that at work but it is a basic 1/8 bsp tee like this, you'll also need a 1/8 nipple.
Oil pressure switch was found on Ebay, something like this would do.

My dash is slightly modified, I've done away with the smoked glass cover (could never see if indicators were on) and warning light now sits with a few others lights in its place.

[teamlines]

Fantastic! Thanks, that's really helpful. Have to say your dash looks great. Would be really interested in any other photos you've got. Also, the cowl around the steering column and switch gear looks bespoke. Did you get it made up? The leatherette affair on my S3 is looking very tired and sorry for itself...!

Thanks again