View Full Version : Let's talk gauges
DarkoNova
09-16-2007, 08:15 PM
I've got a full plethora of Autometer Ultralite gauges right now and I've got a carbon fiber Covan's panel coming (should be here on the 18th). Anyway, all the gauges are mechanical. Will I be able to use them? I'd prefer to not have to buy new gauges since electric ones tend to be like double the price of the mechanical ones.
Matt
chicane67
09-16-2007, 08:48 PM
There is nothing wrong with mech gauges... in fact, for the more serious instrumentation savy people... they are prefered. I dont see why you could not use them.
The only elec gauges that cost twice as much are the newer, full sweep, stepper type. The regular elec's are not so bad.
Yes, you can easily use the mech gauges. Just be sure to keep all the hot fluid senders on the outside of the car in the engine bay area. You don't want an oil or gas leak inside the car.
DarkoNova
09-17-2007, 08:40 AM
Yeah, I prefer mechanical because it's one less thing that can give you a faulty reading.
For some reason I just figured I'd have to use electric since that's probably what most vehicles come with from the factory.
Matt
6'9"Witha69
09-17-2007, 09:03 AM
I use mech Oil and Water with my Covan's panel. No problems.
CarlC
09-17-2007, 12:39 PM
Oil pressure: Get an adapter from Autometer to screw into the stock oil pressure sending unit location. The ATS pan also has oip pressure bungs.
Oil temperature: ATS pan or weld in a bung.
Water Temperature: If using a stock or aftermarket ECM that requires a temperature signal input then using the bung on the right-aft head location is the easiest. Adapters are available from Autometer. I wish there was another temperature tap available on the front of the engine.
Amps/volts: Same as always.
Fuel: Same as always.
Tachometer: Depends upon ECM and tachometer used. Consulting with the tachometer manufacturer for types and wiring schedule is the best option.
Speedometer. Mechanical is available but is very pricey. For the cost and trouble involved retrofitting a modern electronic speedometer is the best option IMO. I will be retrofitting a modern speedometer into an original speedometer assembly for stealth.
DarkoNova
09-17-2007, 10:34 PM
Oil pressure: Get an adapter from Autometer to screw into the stock oil pressure sending unit location. The ATS pan also has oip pressure bungs.
Oil temperature: ATS pan or weld in a bung.
Water Temperature: If using a stock or aftermarket ECM that requires a temperature signal input then using the bung on the right-aft head location is the easiest. Adapters are available from Autometer. I wish there was another temperature tap available on the front of the engine.
Amps/volts: Same as always.
Fuel: Same as always.
Tachometer: Depends upon ECM and tachometer used. Consulting with the tachometer manufacturer for types and wiring schedule is the best option.
Speedometer. Mechanical is available but is very pricey. For the cost and trouble involved retrofitting a modern electronic speedometer is the best option IMO. I will be retrofitting a modern speedometer into an original speedometer assembly for stealth.
This is exactly what I was looking for. Thanks, Carl. :)
Matt
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