Talk to me about boost gauges

[CJFusco]

Considering that it's probably my addiction to booOOOST that got me a blown head gasket in the first place, I think it's probably a good idea for me to install a dedicated boost gauge.

I am new to the world of gauges, though. I want something simple (not flashy), as close to my stock VDO gauges as possible. I don't want anything flashy for the mounting hardware either - I'm not trying to impress anyone with my boost gauge, I just want to keep an eye on how much pressure I am getting. I might just run the line into the glovebox and look at the boost gauge when I want.

The key is, my interior is really nice, and I like it how it is (although I may update the steering wheel). What are my options?

Also, as I understand it, installing a boost gauge is as easy as cutting the vaccuum line at the KLR box and splicing in a "T' connector, right?

[JayG]

I have a black autometer mechanical 30-0-20 boost gauge with the orange needle in place of where my clock was. No attention gets drawn to it and even at night it blends perfectly.

[88BlueTSiQuest]

Well, if you want to match the VDO gauges, get a VDO gauge


I don't know how good the 'in the glovebox' mount will work out. I originally had my boost and A/F gauge under the stereo, and it really is a problem due to the fact you have to pull your eyes off the road to monitor them. I went for a dual gauge pod(Lindsey) for my gauges, and can monitor them more accurately.

I've seen where members either here, or on Rennlist made an adapter plate that allows the gauge to be mounted to the steering column, and have Mickey Mouse ears on it to allow the gauge to be placed up in the cluster area, this might be a good alternative to you. Or you can go with a single gauge pod mount, JC Whitney, modify it to fit, and heat it up to achieve the proper shape. Mount it low on the A-pillar and call that good.

[CJFusco]

Thanks for the ideas. I think I may go with that single gauge pod, although I would rather buy something with a built-in exact fit; unfortunately it looks like Lindsey only sells 2- or 3-gauge pods. I'll have to mull this one over tonight while I'm tinkering in the garage.

[CJFusco]

I kinda like the Lindsey 2-gauge A-pillar pods; you can get a package deal that includes the pod, a boost gauge, and an air/fuel mix gauge.

To where does the A/F gauge connect? How difficult is installation?

[88BlueTSiQuest]

Originally Posted by CJFusco

I kinda like the Lindsey 2-gauge A-pillar pods; you can get a package deal that includes the pod, a boost gauge, and an air/fuel mix gauge.

To where does the A/F gauge connect? How difficult is installation?

A/F gauge connects to the DME wiring. http://www.lindseyracing.com/IAFM-1%20Wiring%20at%20DME.rtf

My only real complaint about the Lindsey pod is that the gauges aren't aimed at you, they are basically aimed at your left shoulder. But I guess that's a minimal complaint. The quality of the pod is pretty good, though it could stand to be glossy. They are both at a pretty good level, and as I mentioned earlier, reading the gauges doesn't take any effort or distract from watching the road.

[88BlueTSiQuest]

For a look that doesn't stick out, you'd probably want the Z-series gauges, 2614 and 2675.

I'm running the sport comp ultra lights, which are silver with black writing and red needles........ Stick out like a sore thumb, and don't match anything. I just happen to have them from my old car which they looked great in, as the main gauges matched these.

I've thought about selling these and going for maybe the Z-series myself, to make it look better.

[CJFusco]

Hmm I'm starting to lean toward Lindsey's gauge cluster, which mounts under the radio. I don't really need a 2nd gauge, so I can get the one-gauge cut-out and a boost gauge for pretty cheap (about $85). This way I don't have that ricey-looking A-pillar gauge...

still somewhat undecided, though.

[Techno Duck]

Dont get a cheapo a/f gauge that runs off the narrow band O2 sensor. Get a proper wideband. Just about the only thing a narrowband is good for is annoying you with flashing lights.

[Keithr726]

I have the stock looking VDO gauge and innovate wideband XD-16 in the LR gauge pod. I think its about as stock look as it can get.

[IMG][/IMG]