VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1929-1932 Non-standard option for 1931

Hello All,
Have you ever wanted to install an option on your vehicle that wasn't available for your model year? Well, I like the look of the 1928 Moto Meter, but I have a 1931 Coach. What to do? The 1930 and prior radiator caps are the screw on type, where as the 1931 and later have the bayonet type caps. I asked the Filling Station if they knew of any modifications that would mate the Meter to a bayonet cap, but they did not know of any. I guess that leaves me to figure something out myself ( kind of frightening I know ). The Filling Station has the parts and I have the tools. How about I purchase a VT-28 Meter and a GR-199 radiator cap, drill out the cap and bayonet to accept the Meter's threaded shaft and screw the assembly together with a touch of gasket sealer around the hole and maybe double nut for security. If it fails, I'll mount it on a nice piece of hardwood and place it on the mantel. I still have my stock radiator cap. What do you think, nuts or what or should I just buy a 1928 Chevy with a Moto Meter?

Nuts!!

I would suggest purchasing a 1928 Chevy with a Motometer.

Actually, I have seen Motometers installed on the later Chevrolet flat bayonet type of radiator cap so it can be done.

I think you could do exactly what you're thinking about. The only problem might be cutting the bayonet in half to make a hole larg enough for the Moto Meter. It can be done and it is your car.

IMHO, I'm not sure the motometer on a '31 (or later) car will look appropriate. As cars became more streamlined and cleaner lined after say 1929, hood ornaments became part of the styling exercise. The motometer with it's straight-up utilitarian look seems more suited to pre '30 cars. Just my thoughts, the '31 Viking looks very nice.