Dave,
The MGA temp gauge is a mechanical gauge. It is possible that the
gauge has lost its charge of ether and needs rebuilding. But test before
fearing the worst. Fire up the engine and drive the car for a mile.
Then release radiator pressure and poke a regular thermometer into the
radiator water. Compare the thermometer to the gauge. If their readings
are similar, the gauge is OK and thermostat is suspect.
There is no harm done by driving with a dead gauge as long as the
engine temp stays within normal range. Without the gauge you don't know
that, unfortunately.
Bob
|