Thursday, June 26, 2008

English Tyre Pressure Gauges


ENGLISH TYRE (TIRE) PRESSURE GAUGES

Yes this is a minor issue in the scope of things. I have noticed A LOT of confusion, and misinformation. I will attempt to clarify, explain and illucidate.
I may not be totally accurate on Pre-WWII gauges, but I think I can shed some light, and open myself up for correction, or amplification.
The gauges in this photo are placed in Chronological order.
On the far left is a late 1920’s to early 1930’s KISMET.
Notice the offset head. This one has a round body with a hex gauge. Some have round gauges. There is some discussion about which is correct for Bentley and Royce. I welcome more information.
.
Next is a later Kismet. Notice that the head is centered on the body, and there is a thumb notch. I believe this is from the early 1930’s to 1940

Next is the common Early Post-WWII hex shaped Kismet. Notice the round head and tyre valve tool. While close, this is NOT the proper tool for any Bentley or Royce.

Next is the common Early Post-WWII hex Kismet. Notice the thumb notch in the head and the absence of the tyre valve tool. While close, this is NOT the proper tool for any Bentley or Royce.

The above gauges are often represented by sellers and collectors, as being correct for Bentley or Royce. It is this common misrepresentation that has prompted me to create this BLOG!!!

The next gauge is the Hex Kismet, with thumb notch AND Tyre valve tool.
It is correct for ALL 1946 thru 1965 Bentley and Royce.

Next is the common Dunlop No. 6. Notice the pointed top with 4 facets. The valve is on the side. This gauge was used by many marques from 1966 thru 1975. This tool was used on the Royce Silver Shadow and Bentley “T1”.

On the far right is the Dunlop G6. The valve is on the very top, and has distinguishing grooves. This gauge was used on numerous British cars, including ALL 1975 and onward Bentley and Royce (Silver Shadow II, Silver Wraith II, “T2” etc).

No comments: