How to create a new port for temp gauge probe? Using a Sniper t-stat

[fairlaniac]

I'm about done installing my Sniper 4150. I am not using a lot of the extra features as I just want to get it running. I have a Performer RPM intake and am using one port behind the distributor for the Sniper t-stat and I have my heater connection on the port behind the radiator t-stat. I have a t-stat housing with port for my electric fans. I want to keep my fans controlled by it's own t-stat at this time. I also want to run my mechanical temp gauge into a port but I'm out of places. Any ideas? I bought this bypass in the picture below per an article I read on Vintage-Mustang however the temp gauge probe completely blocks off the flow to the heater hose if I use it in that location. I don't want to drill and tap my intake because I may use other features down the road. So, what other creative ways could I create a port for my temp gauge?


Thanks,

[ToddK]

Are you using an aftermarket aluminium radiator? I have a fitting near the inlet neck of my radiator that I use for the temperature switch for the electric fans. That could be an easier option than disturbing the intake manifold.

[Nightmist66]

Doug, I'm not sure which style of gauges you currently have and if you're willing to spend the extra money for it, but I went the electric route for water temp and fuel pressure. I have the AutoMeter Ultra Lite II 2 5/8" gauges. Anyhow, the sending unit is 1/8" NPT. I didn't want to piggy back fittings, so I decided to drill and tap my RPM intake for the added sensor, since I also have a heater fitting in use and another for the electric fan sensor. I used my sonic checker to find a safe location and where it was accessible to tighten/loosen the fitting. IIRC, the thickness was around .240" and seemed like plenty of thread engagement for 1/8" NPT. I decided on here:

[My427stang]

Good advice there, the sonic checker and some feeling around in the thermostat hole can help

That being said, I can't imagine it would be too hard to extend the top of your fitting, a guy with a TIG and 10 minutes could put a collar on there, and just set the depth to allow the sensor to touch the water flow the best you can.

Not to mention, depending on the threads, maybe build and extension that screws in.

If you want to try other things

https://www.americantrucks.com/prosport-water-temperature-sender-radiator-hose-adapter-34mm-9718.html?utm_content=AT%20Engine%20-%20Radiator%7cProsport&T5_Var4=T536533&utm_campaign=ATF+F150+Vehicle+Medium+RLSA&dialogtech=ppc&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=shopping&T5_Var2=shopping&T5_Var3=orange&intl=0&msclkid=dd39ed6d100d1f4f4d2ab2500b529874&utm_term=4577129469715859&gclid=CPWbseCip-sCFdQAxQodA1oEtQ&gclsrc=ds

https://www.jegs.com/i/Exedy/317/DC-0409/10002/-1?msclkid=a3752a3586f31e2d22c975089dacc948&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=BSC%20-%20Non-Brand%20Searches&utm_term=4579397212853905&utm_content=Other%20Categories

https://www.autoanything.com/coolers/77A7704A3880717.aspx?kc=ffskupo&kc=YAHOOBING&DZID=PLA_b_328874283_1230353669580101_7704-3880717_c&utm_source=g&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=328874283&utm_content=1230353669580101&utm_product=7704-3880717&msclkid=88dfdf0aa2ac137b27778037b9f39362&utm_term=4580496728185913

I haven't tried any of those, and not sure of fit, also keep in mind a factory gauge and on/off sensors need a ground.

[My427stang]

A couple other options, but you'd have to research thread size etc.

https://www.amazon.com/Motormite-47993-Heater-Hose-Connector/dp/B078XKG7Y3

https://www.amazon.com/Ford-E5TZ-18599-C-ELBOW/dp/B000O0VIAM/ref=pd_lpo_263_t_1/136-3866780-6246036?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B000O0VIAM&pd_rd_r=96f258d5-a28e-440c-90c7-3f02e049b869&pd_rd_w=lFayQ&pd_rd_wg=KvwmK&pf_rd_p=7b36d496-f366-4631-94d3-61b87b52511b&pf_rd_r=YC3BNZE3NS9Z9MSYZX7D&psc=1&refRID=YC3BNZE3NS9Z9MSYZX7D

Also, if you do have flow, but the heater hose is restricted, I wouldn't worry too much.  It doesn't take a lot to keep the inside warm and hot water flows like gangbusters.  In fact, I typically epoxy a standpipe into the ID of an aftermarket fitting to avoid steam pockets and restrict the heater core.  It helps your heater core live when you do a high speed blast and/or start purging the system at fill.  At worst, you won't have heat, it sure won't hurt the heater or engine, all it does is shut it off

[wayne]

 I think a mustang gt and crown vic cop car have a restricted heater hose to help the save the core.At least my 84 mustang did a friend of mine that worked at a ford dealer told me about it.Just a rubber part that slips in heater hose with a smaller hole in it  most dont know its their and throw it out with the hose.

[fairlaniac]

Thank you for some excellent options. I appreciate it.