Dash instruments

[Paul Hill]

I am considering replacing the oem instruments in my motorhome. I do realize this will entail a new dash panel of some type...

 

I am seeking input from the group about the pros and cons of various instrument manufacturers, the good and bad of your experience with gauges in our cars.

 

The old standby for years was Stewart Warner but am not current on their or anyone else's reputation these days.

 

I will likely go mechanical for oil pressure and water temp. The present speedo is already electronic so have a sender. Not sure what to do about a tach as there is no mechanical nor electronic output on the older 5.9 Cummins diesel.

 

For the record the vehicle is a '93 GMC Topkick. The cab/dash is basically the same as a Chev/GMC pickup truck.

[Mondo]

If it's the same as a Chevy pick up, check out Dakota Gauges. That's my next "significant" purchase for my 67 C10 (2008 drivetrain).

 

http://www.dakotadigital.com/

[Paul Hill]

Thanks Mondo...will check them out!

[NVP66S]

I have always liked VDO and have used them in a few places. For 3 reasons I am planning to remove the Miata OEM gauge cluster in my Westfield and plan to replace them with VDO. I was astounded that the local dealer is suggesting a speedo using a GPS sender. !!

 

I already have a mechanical oil press gauge and voltmeter on a separate sub panel, so the new cluster will be speedo, tach, coolant temp, and fuel level.

[HOTTTCAR]

I used Dakota Gauges on my sons Storker # 119. It is very simple to to wire up and program. It's a high quality product with great support. I broke a switch and they sent me a new one, no charge, no hassel.

Gale

[Paul Hill]

The Dakota stuff looks interesting but me thinks I am too old school for digital. Glancing at the relative position of a conspicuous needle seems easier for these old eyes than trying to read numbers.

 

Spent some time perusing Autometer's offerings. Their Ultralite 2 series caught my eye being LED backlit. Picked up a boost gauge and egt to try so will see how they work. They will be stand alone mounted away from the main cluster so if I am not thrilled with their operation I can use something else.

[xcarguy]

. . . . Spent some time perusing Autometer's offerings. Their Ultralite 2 series caught my eye being LED backlit. Picked up a boost gauge and egt to try so will see how they work. They will be stand alone mounted away from the main cluster so if I am not thrilled with their operation I can use something else.

 

Paul,

 

I wasn't going to comment . . . . But . . . . :jester: . . . since you brought up Autometer gauges (specifically Autometer II’s with the LED's), I'll chime in with my two cents. I have Autometer II gauges in my Stroker (seven years running and ZERO issues . . . gotta’ love that). If you opt for the II's, you'll also need Autometer's dimming switch for the LED backlighting:

 

http://www.xtremediesel.com/autometerledlightingdimmer9114.aspx?gclid=CNTouP2mk8ECFbPm7AodUzAAng

 

Regarding the above link, Jegs will match that price and probably offer free shipping (but I'm sure you already know this ).

 

The II’s are very easy to read, and as for how they look at night (at about 53 sec into the video, I dim the gauges) :

 

 

. . . . . :cheers:

Edited October 4, 2014 by xcarguy

[Paul Hill]

Thanks for easing my mind somewhat xcarguy. It 's tough to get open, honest feedback...reviews have to be taken with a large dose of salt unless you know the person posting them.

 

I am not too concerned about dimming at this point as the egt and boost gauges will not be mounted in a distracting location. Different story if I go ahead with a new gauge cluster behind the steering wheel so will keep your experience in mind.

Thanks again for your input. Most appreciated!