Date: Sat, 12 Apr 1997
Subject: Smiths gauge repair
I read the note on repairing the gauges in the 1800. I recently purchased a '73 1800ES with only 20,000 miles. I also got a set of spare gauges. In looking these over, I realized that these are similar to the gauges on the British cars that I have worked with. Do not bend the tabs unless absolutely necessary.
If you rotate the black outer ring until the retainer tabs line up with the slots around the back of the gauge, the retainer ring will slip off. You sometimes must work some WD40 in around the edges of the ring to make it easier to turn the ring.
I don't have the names of the repair shops with me right now, but there are several that can repair these gauges. They can also supply new rings and lenses. If you would like, I can supply the names of the shops that I have. Similar replacements or identical gauges can probably be purchased through British car parts suppliers.
Could you give me an idea of what a very, very good '73 1800ES is worth with only 20,000 miles? The car has spent a lot of time in storage, but has no rust and just needs a good clean-up and tune-up to be in first-class condition.
Frank Ege
ax00286@deere.com
Frank-
I am not familiar with the later-model gauges, but I know they are quite different from the gauges in my '63 1800S. I appreciate your caution about bending the tabs, and I'm sure owners of later models will find it helpful, but I'm not sure it applies to the early gauges.
I would be interested in the repair shops you mentioned, if only to publish their names and contact information on the web page, especially if you have any information regarding your own experiences with any of them.
As to the value of your car, I can only guess, without seeing it, that it must be worth between $4000 and $10,000. I know that's not much help. You would probably be better off looking in a few recent issues of Hemmings Motor News for prices of comparable cars.
Thanks for your letter. -Glenn.
Date: Thu, 21 Aug 1997
From: Bob Pattison <butnodog@mail1.nai.net>
There is a great company:
Mr. Bob Castajetta
Nisonger Instrument
570 Mamaroneck Ave.
Mamaroneck, NY 10543
914-381-1952
That repairs, cleans, restores Smith instruments. They do really good work and I think quite affordable. This includes the clock!
bob pattison