The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Interiors 1955 Chevrolet Engine Temp. Gauge RetroFit / Replace

Hi guys,

I am beginning the search for a replacement temp gauge and sender for my 1955 Chevrolet which had the mechanical bourdon tube style gauge.

Would like to replace it with a 1956 style temp gauge that is electric but I am not sure if an aftermarket gauge will bolt into place of the 1955 original gauge.

I have found the proper part # for the sender (with proper ohms for a 56 Temp. Gauge.

I've also seen certain videos online of guys purchasing aftermarket replacement gauges and having to modify the housings to bolt in and fit the gauge cluster.

Has anyone got experience with a temp. gauge retro fit ? Are there any specific manufactures that make this a straight swap over ?

Thank you,

All you need in order to use an original style 56 truck electric temp gauge is a temp/amp gauge mounting plate from a 56-59 truck gauge cluster. That 3 screw plate has the "hump/recess" to accept and mount the electric gauge. Probably will have to buy a whole truck gauge cluster from Ebay, Craigslist and etc. A cheap cluster that is in bad shape but has the plate....or see new plates below. Maybe someone sells new plates without a gauge.

Old style With "flat plate".
New style recessed for electric temp gauge.

Maybe Classic Truck Parts has a return or can get you just the plate. Obviously someone is making them.
I notice the 55 temp gauges have a three dot face. The 56-59 has two dots with a white line in between. Aftermarket are all three dot, but there are gauge face decals available for 56-59 die hards.

Bartamos ! Thank you for all the information, exactly what I was searching for