The Midget instrument panel houses the speedometer and tachometer as the primary instruments, with a dual gauge combining fuel level and water temperature readings in a single unit. All instruments were manufactured by Smith's and are specific to both the production date and the earth polarity of the car. The Smith's part number printed on the dial face is the most reliable method of identification and should always be quoted when ordering reconditioned replacements.
Polarity and Ordering
Positive-earth gauges (pre-November 1967) and negative-earth gauges are not interchangeable, a gauge connected to the wrong polarity will read in reverse, with the needle deflecting in the wrong direction. Within the negative-earth range, gauge specifications changed again at GAN6-200001, so the chassis number must be confirmed. The gauge lighting type also matters: early instruments are externally lit (illuminated by separate bulbs in the dashboard behind the gauge face), while later instruments are internally lit (the bulb is housed within the gauge body itself). The two types are not interchangeable within the dashboard without modification.
Speedometer and Tachometer
Multiple speedometer variants were produced across the production run, distinguished by dial markings, trip reset mechanism, and lighting type. Speedometer cables differ in length between RHD and LHD cars and between production periods, the cable length must be confirmed before ordering. An angle drive adaptor connects the speedometer cable to the gearbox output on some applications. The tachometer also changed across production, with a negative-earth conversion tachometer available for cars that have been converted from positive to negative earth.
Instrument retaining straps and thumb nuts secure both instruments within the dashboard apertures.
Dual Fuel and Temperature Gauge
The dual gauge combines the fuel level and water temperature readings in a single instrument, available in both Fahrenheit and Celsius dial markings. As with the primary instruments, the dual gauge is specific to the production date, earth polarity, and lighting type. The temperature sender unit screws into an adaptor on the cylinder head, and the fuel sender unit is mounted within the fuel tank. Gauge glasses are available as individual replacements for instruments where the glass has crazed or yellowed but the gauge movement remains serviceable.
Instrument Voltage Stabiliser
The instrument voltage stabiliser maintains a constant 10-volt supply to the fuel and temperature gauges regardless of variations in the car's system voltage. A faulty stabiliser causes erratic gauge readings that fluctuate with engine speed, the fuel gauge needle bouncing in time with the revs is the classic symptom.
Replacement stabilisers are available in both the original bi-metallic strip type and a modern solid-state electronic version that provides more consistent regulation and eliminates the slight needle oscillation that is normal with the original bi-metallic design.
Oil Pressure Gauge
An oil pressure gauge was fitted as original equipment on some models, while others used an oil pressure warning light instead. The 1500 was produced with both specifications depending on production date. The oil pressure gauge is a capillary-type mechanical instrument connected to the engine block via a pipe assembly, flexible hose, and block adaptor. The pipe runs through the bulkhead via a grommet.
For cars not originally fitted with an oil pressure gauge, an aftermarket gauge can be added as a worthwhile upgrade, particularly recommended for modified engines or competition use where oil pressure is a critical parameter to monitor in real time.