AMMETER GAUGE FULL ONE (1) YEAR WARRANTY VOLTMETER GAUGE Bosch Automotive Service Solutions, 3000 Apollo Drive, Brook Park, OH 44142, warrants to the user TEMPERATURE GAUGE that this unit will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from INSTALLATION the date of original purchase. GAUGE Any unit that fails within this period will be repaired or replaced at Bosch's option and without charge /ECONOMETER/ when returned to the factory. Bosch requests that a copy of the original, dated sales receipt be returned INSTRUCTIONS with the unit to determine if the warranty period is still in effect. BOOST GAUGE This warranty does not apply to damages caused by accident, alterations, or improper or unreasonable use. FUEL LEVEL GAUGE Expendable items, such as batteries, fuses, lamp bulbs, flash tubes are also excluded from this warranty. BOSCH AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE SOLUTIONS DISCLAIMS ANY LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSE- QUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY WRITTEN WARRANTY ON THE UNIT. Some states do not allow the disclaimer of liability for incidental or consequential damages, so the above disclaimer may GENERAL MOUNTING INSTRUCTIONS or may not apply to you. This warranty gives specific legal rights, and you may also have rights which Boxch produces a full line of gauges with Gauges allow you to monitor the condition vary from state to state. many different styles. of your vehicle and to tell how well it is per- forming. If there are any problems, you can 1-1/2" — “Mini” Black Bezel detect them immediately before they become 1-1/2" — "Mini" Chrome Bezel severe. Warning lights only tell you when the 2" — Black and Chrome Bezels problem already requires immediate atten- tion. You will find that the addition of these gauges will add to your peace of mind and (See page 2 for hole sizes.) driving comfort. MICROPROCESSOR-CONTROLLED ENGINES Many newer vehicles employ microproces- operation. If your vehicle is one of these sors that control most of the engine and you CANNOT replace the sender(s) with any electrical functions. Microprocessors are other. You can add an additional oil pressure very sensitive electrical components. Before sender with a “Tee Adapter Kit” but the only installing any aftermarket equipment consult possible way to install a non OEM water the vehicle’s manufacturer or shop manual temperature sender is to install the new to make certain that no damage will result. sender in a different location, retaining the Some of these newer vehicles use electric OEM unit in its original location. Check with cooling fans or microprocessor engine the vehicle’s manufacturer or dealer to see controls that depend on readings from the if this is possible. original equipment sending units for correct

INSTALLATION & SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

1. Read the entire instructions for your not be lengthened)? gauge before proceeding. •Is the vehicle’s electrical system 12 volt 2. Be sure the gauge is suitable for your and negatively grounded? vehicle: 3. It is recommended that the battery • Does the gauge’s range cover the vehi- ground cable be disconnected before any cle’s operating range? electrical work is performed, especially when installing Ammeters or Voltmeters. 3000 Apollo Drive •Will the tubing of the mechanical gauges reach from the engine connection point 4. Route all wiring and gauge tubing away Brook Park, Ohio 44142 ©2013 Bosch Automotive Service Solutions to the gauge (temperature gauges can- from linkages, high heat or moving parts. For warranty information: 1-800-228-7667 0002-000-200601 Rev D 1 5. Never smoke while working on your ve- 3. For dash lighting dimmers that control hicle and always keep a fire extinguisher the positive side (Diagram 2A) of the FUEL LEVEL INSTRUCTIONS nearby. It should be rated for gas/chem- lighting circuit: Fuel level gauges accurately measure the Volt power, the center post is for the ical/electrical fires. depth, not the amount, of fuel left in the ground connection and the left post is 6. Never lay tools on top of the battery or Diagram 2A fuel tank. Because of the variety of fuel tank for the sender connection. After you wear jewelry during electrical work to for positive-side shapes, a universal gauge such as this gauge have mounted the gauge, connect the dimmer controls avoid severe electrical shorts. dash ground cannot accurately compensate for the differ- sender wire to the left connection post. lighting ent rates that the fuel drops at various tank Attach the wire as shown in Diagram 7,

+12 red depths. This Fuel Level Sender instructions page 7. Do not over tighten. Volts gauge GAUGE MOUNTING black include adjustment procedures that are re- dimmer 4. Connect another length of 18-gauge All gauges can be mounted into a surface of control quired to complete the installation. insulated copper wire to the center your choice or into a panel. Single, dual & ground connection post as shown in Diagram 7, triple gauge mounting panels are produced PRECAUTIONS page 7, and the other end of the wire to a for all size gauges. Some panels are in black 1. The sender is not designed as a direct good ground source. Scrape away paint or chrome finishes. — FOR TWO-WIRE BULB HOLDER— replacement for factory senders. Instal- or dirt from the surface of the ground Connect the red wire into the circuit between lation may require fabrication. 1. Choose a location to mount the gauge connection. where it will be viewable from a normal the dimmer control and the dash lights. 2. Because of the danger of working around 5. Connect a third length of 18-gauge driving position (fuel pressure gauges Connect the black wire to a good electrical gasoline, it is suggested you observe the insulated copper wire to the right con- should never be mounted within the ground. following: interior of the vehicle). nection post as shown in Diagram 7, page A.) All safety precautions in the front of 7, and the other end of the wire should — FOR ONE-WIRE BULB HOLDER — 2. If you are using a mounting panel, mount this instruction booklet, including the be connected to the fuse box where it at the chosen location with the screws Connect the one wire into the circuit between fire extinguisher availability and battery the wire will receive +12 volts of power provided. the dimmer control and the dash lights. Ob- ground cable removal. whenever the ignition key is in a START, tain a length of 18-gauge insulated copper B.) Drain fuel from the fuel tank into a ON or ACCESSORY position. Diagram 1 wire and connect one end of the wire to a safe, vented container and remove the 6. Double-check that the wire connections good electrical ground source and the other top view fuel tank from the vehicle if any modifi- are located and attached properly and end to one of the mounting bracket posts. cations to the tank are necessary. Fill the then reconnect the battery ground cable. tank with water to displace fuel vapors. 7. Refill the fuel tank, observing the gauge gauge bracket 3. The fuel level gauge and sender require for proper operation as you do. Be sure For dash lighting dimmers that control the best ground connections available that all water has been removed and the the grounded side (Diagram 2B) of the nuts & for an accurate reading. tank thoroughly dried before refilling. washers lighting circuit: — FOR TWO-WIRE BULB HOLDER — INSTALLATION TROUBLESHOOTING 1. Read the Fuel Level Sender’s instructions If the gauge indicates too low a fuel level Diagram 2B and follow them for installation of the compared to the actual level, recheck all for ground (Negative)-side sender. connections for poor contact, particularly dimmer controls dash the ground connections, as this will cause +12 lighting 2. Route a length of 18-gauge insulated Volts black/ increased electrical resistance and false low dimmer Negative copper wire from the gauge mounting control readings. gauge location to the connection on top of the +12 If the gauge does not indicate full or empty Volts sender and connect the wire to the gauge red sender. at the proper fuel levels, recheck your adjust- ground ments to the sender so you are sure that it is 3. Facing the back of the gauge, the con- getting full travel of the float arm. If you are creating a hole, make the hole: nection post on the right is for the +12 Connect the black wire into the circuit between GAUGE STYLE HOLE SIZE the dimmer control and the dash lights. Con- 1-1/2" 1-5/8" (41 mm) nect the red wire to the fuse box so that the 2" 2-1/16" (53 mm) wire only receives +12-volt power when the dash lights are turned on.

2 15 7. Complete the mounting of the gauge. HOW TO USE — FOR ONE-WIRE BULB HOLDER — over the mounting posts (Diagram 3), 8. Start the engine and check for proper An Econometer is merely a vacuum gauge Connect the wire to the fuse box so it re- slide on washer, plus a lock washer if gauge operation. (Refer to the How To with different markings to directly indicate ceives only +12-volt power when the dash supplied, and tighten the nut with only Use section). For boost gauges, you will the economy benefits of each area of vacuum lights are on. Obtain a length of 18-gauge light pressure. If the gauge is an electrical need to consult manufacturer’s specifica- operation. insulated copper wire and connect one end model, be sure you use a bracket that tions for what rpm and pressure should POOR (0-10") — Acceleration or Load requires to the gauge mounting bracket or panel. has grommets to insulate the posts from be maximum boost and at what rpm the a more open position. Open throttle Connect the other end of the wire into the the mounting bracket. This does not engine transfers to boost from vacuum. means more air & gas flow for more horse- circuit between the dimmer control and the apply to gauges using separate bracket power, reducing vacuum and fuel economy. dash lights. Insulate the gauge and bracket mounting posts from the posts used for from grounded surfaces. wire connections. TROUBLESHOOTING NORMAL (10-20") — Cruise condition, fairly 1. If your engine idles roughly, check the steady throttle position, most useful econ- 4. Refer to specific instructions for the 8. Position the gauge for best visibility and tubing and fittings for leaks. Sealing omy range. gauge you are installing. They explain appearance, then tighten the bracket tape or compound can usually be used nuts with moderate pressure. Do not DECELERATION (20-30") — Throttle is nearly other connections that should be made to solve these leaks. before mounting is completed. over- tighten these nuts when using an closed, momentum of vehicle or downhill insulated bracket. Excess pressure can 2. If the gauge’s vacuum reading changes grade carry vehicle forward. Little horse- 5. Insert the gauge into the mounting panel distort the grommets causing them to when the pedal is pressed, then power required, least fuel used. or hole. crack and short the wiring, even months you will need to select another vacuum 6. Insert the bulb holder into the bulb socket after installation. attachment point. on the back of the gauge. 9. Refer to the specific instructions for the 7. Install the appropriate mounting bracket gauge you are now installing to complete (Diagram 1: insulated or non-insulated) any other connections.

Diagram 3 Electrical Gauges Shown

u-bracket light

gauge

nuts & washers

dashboard

insulated gauge u-bracket

light nuts & washers

14 3 AMMETER INSTRUCTIONS VACUUM/ECONOMETER/BOOST An ammeter measures the amperage (rate 3. Never connect the ammeter into the cir- INSTRUCTIONS of flow of electricity) passing through it. The cuit between the battery and the starter/ goal of installation is to reroute all the power solenoid. All of these type gauges measure the vacuum tubing and then pressing each cut end through the ammeter (Diagram 4) that drains 4. Good electrical connections are import- and/or pressure existing within the intake of the tubing tightly into the opposing or charges the battery, except the power ant for maintaining gauge accuracy and manifold of the vehicle. They use different barbs of the T-fitting. needed to operate the starter motor. When avoiding heat build-up in the wiring. ranges or markings to cover different needs 3. Unroll a few feet of vacuum tubing and the vehicle is operating above idle speed, the and applications. A vacuum or econometer ammeter should be indicating “0”, or a slight press the end tightly into the remaining gauge measures the vacuum created as the barb of the T-fitting. charge condition, which shows a balance of Installation engine draws air into its cylinders. A boost charging and draining of the battery. 4. Route the remaining tubing through As the many different vehicles that have gauge measures the same vacuum, as well as the firewall into the gauge, leaving at been produced have minor differences in the pressure when an external Read all precautions and installation instruc- least one 3" or larger loop in the tubing the routing and connection points of their or pushes air into the engine. tions carefully before proceeding with any before it enters the firewall and protect charging systems, it is not possible to pro- An engine that is not supercharged or turbo- installation work as the potential for elec- the tubing from any rough edges of the vide specific information for each vehicle. charged will generally have a vacuum reading trical damage or fire exists if an ammeter is fire wall. Press the tubing tightly onto The eight drawings of Diagram 5 cover the between 12 and 18" Hg (inches of mercury) at improperly connected. the barb on the back of the gauge. relevant connection points of virtually every idle. Check the manufacturer’s specifications charging system in modern vehicles. You for more exact readings for your engine at 5. Start the engine and check for proper idle speed and other rpm. All of these gauges gauge operation. (Refer to the How To Precautions must determine which drawing matches your system. If you have difficulty in locating can aid you in monitoring engine efficiency, Use section). 1. Never ground either of the connection any of these connection points refer to a achieving the best fuel economy and noticing posts of the ammeter. wiring diagram in an owner/service manual engine malfunctions immediately. For Gauges with 1/8" NPT (Threaded) Fitting 2. Always use a wire size rated to handle an or contact your local dealer/auto electrical (Diagram 11, page 12): electrical load equal to, or greater than, repair shop for assistance. the manufacturer’s specified output of PRECAUTIONS 1. Find a location on your intake manifold your alternator or generator. 1. Be sure the source of vacuum you pick is a where you can screw in the engine fitting. direct source and not in the brake booster Manifolds often have removeable plugs. or other accessory line, otherwise the 2. From the tubing kit, screw in the engine reading may be inaccurate or unsteady. fitting into the manifold at the location Diagram 4 2. Be sure your tubing and fitting con- you selected. nections are complete and sealed, for 3. Uncoil a few feet of tubing and slide a To ATOLT ALERNTERNATATOR a vacuum leak will cause rough engine POSITIVE TERMINA L hex nut and ferrule over the end of the positive terminal operation at idle, and inaccurate read- tubing as shown in Diagram 9, page 11. ings. 4. Insert the tubing into the engine fitting and then tighten the hex nut into the engine fitting. INSTALLATION RIGHT 5. Route the remaining tubing through the For Gauges With a Barbed Fitting: firewall to the gauge, leaving at least one 3" or larger loop in the tubing before it TO ALTERNATOR 1. Find a location on your intake manifold To ALTERNATOR enters the firewall and protecting the POSITIVE TERMINA L where you can either unscrew a plug in positive terminal tubing from any rough edges of the the manifold or find a vacuum hose you firewall. can cut to splice in a barbed T-fitting. 6. Attach the hex nut adapter to the back 2. From the tubing kit, either screw in the of the gauge and then attach the tubing barbed manifold fitting or splice the as in Steps 3 & 4. Refer also to Diagram WRONG barbed T-fitting into a suitable vacuum 11, page 12. line. This is done by cleanly cutting the

4 13 Diagram 11 gine block. Install an adapter fitting first Diagram 5 if needed. In one of the two remaining 1/8" Npt openings in the T-fitting, insert the gauge gauge hex nut sender. Insert the warning light into the adapter remaining T-fitting opening. Install the Before After hex nut tubing adapter fitting first, if needed. A 4. Run a length of 18-gauge insulated _ + A copper wire from the gauge sender to _ I _ ferrule compression 1 + + fitting the gauge mounting location. I gauge Battery S Battery S 5. Connect the wire to the connection on top of the gauge sender. A _ + A 6. Facing the back of the gauge, the con- _ I _ 5. If the gauge has a 1/8" NPT fitting on the nection post on the right is for + 12 2 + + back (Diagram 11), install the hex nut Volts of power, the center post is for the Battery S Battery S I adapter to it. ground connection and the left post 6. Route the remaining tubing through the is for the sender connection. After you A firewall to the gauge mounting location. have mounted the gauge, connect the I _ + A Leave at least one 3" or longer loop in the sender wire to the left connection post _ + _ as shown in Diagram 7, page 7. Do not 3 + tubing before it enters the firewall and Battery I protect the tubing from rough edges of over tighten. S Battery S the firewall hole. 7. Connect one end of another length of 7. Repeat Step 3 to attach the tubing to the 18-gauge insulated copper wire to the Z A _ + gauge. center connection post, as shown in Z A _ + _ + 8. Complete the mounting of the gauge. Diagram 7, page 7, and the other end of 4 I the wire to a good ground source. Battery S I Battery S 9. Refill the fluid level, if drained, to its normal level. 8. Connect a third length of 18-gauge insu- lated copper wire to the right connection 10. Start the engine and observe the fitting _ post as shown in Diagram 7, page 7, + A connections for leaks and the gauge for _ A and the other end of the wire should be + _ + proper operation. I connected to the fuse box where the wire 5 Battery S I Battery S will receive + 12 Volts of power whenever the ignition key is in the START, ON, or For Electrical Gauges: ACCESSORY position. I _ 1. If you are monitoring a fluid system, _ + I drain the fluid level to a level below the 9. Refill the fluid level, if drained, to its + A _ + warning light sender location. normal level. 6 Battery S Battery S A 2. Remove the warning light sender from 10. Start the engine and observe the fitting the engine and insulate the end of the connections for leaks and the gauge for sender wire if a T-fitting is not being used. proper operation. A _ + A Install the gauge sender in the same lo- _ + _ + cation in the engine block. If an adapter Troubleshooting 7 Battery S I Battery is required, first install the adapter (not If your electrical gauge reads lower than you S I included) and then the gauge’s sender. would expect, check all electrical connec- 3. Optional T-fitting (Diagram 10) — Install tions, particularly grounding connections. _ A Z + I the nipple into the T-fitting and tighten Any poor connection will increase resistance _ resulting in a false low reading. _ + Z + the other end of the nipple into the 8 warning light sender location in the en- Battery S I Battery S A

12 5 The following connection points are repre- Diagram 6 sented in the drawings of Diagram 5: Oil/Air pressure instructions : If your is microprocessor (computer) controlled or has an electric cooling fan refer to the S– Starter/Solenoid: the main power WIRE SIZE MAX. AMP. RATING WARNING wire to the battery (largest wire) section on the front cover titled MICROPROCESSOR CONTROLLED ENGINES. 12 25 A– Alternator/Generator: the main power 10 40 Pressure gauges can measure the pressure For Mechanical Gauges: wire to the battery (largest wire at alter- present in a system utilizing air or liquids. An 1. If you are monitoring a fluid system, nator) and, in Drawings 1 & 5, the wire 8 65 electrical pressure gauge is simpler and more drain the fluid level to a level below the from the ignition/accessories 6 95 versatile for installation than a mechanical warning light sender location. I– Ignition/Accessory: the main power gauge but is not quite as fast to respond to 4 125 2. Remove the warning light sender from wire, which receives power regardless pressure changes and is not made with more the engine and install the engine fitting of ignition key position than a 90 degree needle sweep, compared 5. At the location chosen in Step 2, discon- to a mechanical gauge which may have up in the same location. If an adapter is Z– Junction: in Drawings 4 & 8, where “I” nect all the wires at the connection except to a 270 degree sweep. The factory warning required, first install the adapter (not connects into the circuit the wire going to the battery. light sender can be retained to operate the included) and then the engine fitting. 6. Connect an end of one of the wires you warning light with the use of a T-fitting which 3. Uncoil a few feet of tubing and slide the Note: The circuit from the battery (B) to alter- obtained in Step 4 to all the wires you is commonly available at auto parts stores. hex nut and ferrule over the end of the nator (A) or starter (S) to alternator (A) may disconnected in Step 5. tubing as in Diagram 9. Insert the tubing also contain a junction block, horn relay or PRECAUTIONS into the engine fitting, and then tighten 7. Connect an end of the remaining wire headlight relay, which is not shown. One of 1. Check the owner’s or service manual, the hex nut into the engine fitting. from Step 4 to the connection in Step 5 these is likely to be connection “Z” in Draw- or your local dealer, to be sure that the that still has the battery wire attached to ings 4 & 8. These locations are often handy normal during cold-start and Diagram 9 it. connections that you can disconnect and fully-warmed operation for your engine ferrule tubing then attach the ammeter wires to. 8. If your system matches Drawings 2, 3, or or air system are within the gauge range. 6, connect the wire you disconnected in 2. Be sure the tubing kit for the mechanical Step 3 to the wires already connected in hex nut 1. After you have identified which BEFORE gauge is long enough for your applica- optional engine Step 6. Use an additional piece of similar adapter fitting Drawing represents your charging sys- tion. tem, observe the corresponding AFTER sized wire to join these wires, if necessary. 3. Follow the instructions carefully. A leak 4. Optional T-Fitting (Diagram 10) — Install Drawing which indicates how to connect 9. Insulate all connections and use a suitable that goes unnoticed may lead to serious the nipple into the T-fitting and tighten the ammeter into your charging system. method to fasten down the wires in Step engine damage. the other end of the nipple into the 2. Find a convenient location in the circuit 6 and 8. 4. Do not use sealing tapes or compounds warning light sender location. Install an from the battery to the alternator (Draw- 10. Route the two ammeter wires to the on electrical senders. This will disturb adapter fitting first if needed. In one of the ings 1 - 4) or the starter to the alternator mounting location for the ammeter. their grounding connection to the two remaining openings in the T-fitting, circuit (Drawings 5 - 8) where you can Insulate the opening in the firewall the engine/system, resulting in false low insert the engine fitting and then follow break the circuit by unbolting a connec- wires will pass through. Step 3 to connect the pressure tubing. tion. In Drawings 4 & 8, this should be at readings. 11. Mount the gauge and attach the remain- Insert the warning light sender into the Connection “Z”. 5. Be careful not to crimp the tubing while ing end of the wire from Step 6 to the remaining T-fitting opening. Install an unrolling it. Do not use any section of 3. If your system matches Drawings 2, 3 or ammeter connection post marked with a adapter fitting first, if needed. tubing with a crimp or kink in it. If the 6, disconnect the Ignition/Accessory (I) “+”. Follow the sequence of washer-wire- nylon tubing is a little awkward to use wire at “B” or “S”. nut shown in Diagram 7, page 7. Diagram 10 because of being rolled, heat it in boiling 4. Choose a wire size from the table in 12. Attach the remaining end of the wire from water and let the tubing cool while it is electrical hose gauge sender Diagram 6 that is a large enough gauge Step 7 to the ammeter connection post unrolled. (larger size wire has a smaller gauge marked with a “–” sign, again following number) to handle the maximum rated ferrule or Diagram 7, page 7. INSTALLATION warning light optional output of your vehicle alternator/gener- engine 13. Reconnect the battery ground cable. As sender adapter ator. Obtain two lengths of this size wire, Note: If you are planning to install an oil fitting you do, watch for sparks and check if the each long enough to go from the location temperature gauge as well as an oil pressure engine wiring you worked with is getting warm. block chosen in Step 2, to the ammeter mount- gauge, read the Note under INSTALLATION in If either condition is noted, IMMEDIATELY TEMPERATURE—WATER/OIL INSTRUCTIONS. t- fitting ing location at the dashboard. Attach nipple disconnect the battery ground cable and closed-eyed type connectors (Diagram read the section. 7, page 7), to each end of both wires. Troubleshooting 6 11 5. Complete the mounting of the gauge. 6. Facing the back of the gauge, the con- lTROUBLESHOOTING meter. The gauge should show a drain nection post on the right is for the +12 (–) condition. If a charge (+) condition is 6. Refill the fluid level to its normal level. 1. If, when you reconnected the battery Volt power, the center post is for the shown, reverse the wires on the “+” and ground cable, you noticed sparks or any 7. Start the engine and observe the fitting ground connection and the left post “–” posts on the back of the ammeter. If of the wiring getting warm, check that connections for leaks and the gauge for is for the sender connection. After you the ammeter shows no change, the circuit all connections are properly located, and proper operation. have mounted the gauge, connect the from Ignition/Accessory (I) has not been insulated from grounding. sender wire to the left connection post properly included in the connections to as shown in Diagram 7, page 7. Do not 2. With the vehicle not running and the the “+” side of the gauge. over tighten. battery reconnected, turn the headlights on to high beam and observe the am- Diagram 8 7. Connect one end of another length of 18-gauge insulated copper wire to the captive fitting center connection post, as shown in capillary tube tip Diagram 7, page 7 and the other end of capillary the wire to a good ground source. Diagram 7 tube 8. Connect a third length of 18-gauge insulated copper wire to the right con- nut wire nection post as shown in Diagram 7,

page 7, and the other end of the wire closed-eye should be connected to the fuse box flat washer grommet connector where the wires will receive +12 Volts nut u-bracket For Electrical Gauges: of power whenever the ignition key is washer 1. Drain the fluid level in the system to below in a START, ON, or ACCESSORY position. the sender’s mounting location, which is 9. Refill the fluid level to its normal level. normally the factory warning light sender location. 10. Start the engine and observe the fitting/ sender connections for leaks and the gauge 2. Remove the warning light sender and gauge for proper operation. insulate the end of the sender wire. Install DO NOT LEAVE ANY HARDWARE the proper adapter fitting (not included) Troubleshooting OUT OF THESE CONNECTIONS into the engine block, if needed. If your electrical gauge reads lower than expected, check all electrical connections, 3. Install the gauge sender into the warning 2" AMMETER ONLY: light sender mounting location in the particularly grounding connections. Any engine block. poor connection will increase electrical resistance resulting in a false low reading. 4. Run a length of 18-gauge insulated copper gauge 3-PRONG u-bracket wire from the gauge mounting location to the sender’s mounting location. 5. Attach the 18-gauge wire onto the top of the gauge sender.

nut washer

10 7 VOLTMETER INSTRUCTIONS WATER/OIL TEMPERATURE INSTRUCTIONS

A voltmeter measures the voltage (pressure 3. After mounting the gauge, the wire from Warning: If your car is microprocessor (computer) controlled or has an electric cooling fan, refer to the of electricity) passing through it. Most vehi- the ground source (Step 1) should be section on the front cover titled MICROPROCESSOR CONTROLLED ENGINES. cles will show between 13 and 15 volts while connected as shown in Diagram 7, page Temperature gauges measure the tempera- engine first and then tighten the captive being operated above idle speed. Check your 7, to the voltmeter’s connection post ture of any liquid its sender tip is submerged fitting (Diagram 8) on the capillary tube owners manual or dealer for a more exact marked “–” in. An electrical temperature gauge is simpler to avoid twisting the tubing. normal voltage for your vehicle. A voltmeter 4. The wire from the fuse box (Step 2) should and more versatile for installation than a is useful in that it can give a warning of many 6. Never install the captive fitting on the be connected as shown in Diagram 7, mechanical gauge but is not quite as fast to capillary tube directly into the engine electrical problems and can show many page 7, to the voltmeter’s connection respond to temperature changes and is not problems faster than an ammeter. without an adapter, as a proper seal will post marked “+”. made with more than a 90° needle sweep, not be formed. 5. Reconnect the battery ground cable. As compared to a mechanical gauge which may PRECAUTIONS you do, watch for sparks and check if the have up to a 270° sweep. 1. Follow the instructions carefully for wiring you worked with is getting warm. INSTALLATION If either condition is noted, IMMEDIATELY the sequence of nuts and washers on PRECAUTIONS Note: If you are planning to use both an oil the connection posts of the voltmeter disconnect the battery ground cable and temperature gauge and an an oil pressure 1. A temperature gauge requires that its (Diagram 7, page 7). read the Troubleshooting section. gauge, some modifications may be neces- sender tip have a circulating flow around sary as there is only one available hole for 2. Disconnect the battery ground cable it to give an accurate reading. For this both senders. Since the temperature gauge before working on the voltmeter con- TROUBLESHOOTING reason, a T-fitting cannot be used be- cannot use a T-fitting, you must install the nections. 1. If, when you reconnected the battery cause it has no circulation therefore the oil temperature sender into the oil pressure ground cable, you noticed sparks or any original warning light sender cannot warning light sender location in the engine be operated off the same location. An INSTALLATION of the wiring getting warm, check that block. Then obtain an adapter used for oil all connections are properly located, and additional location may be available on coolers which will give you an additional 1. Connect a length of 18-gauge insulated insulated from grounding. the cylinder head, intake manifold, or outlet for oil pressure. copper wire to a good ground source. thermostat housing but caution should Be sure the grounding surface is a good 2. If the reading on the gauge stays at the be used in that these locations may have For Mechanical Gauges: ground source as not all metal surfaces lowest marked voltage when the ignition different average temperatures than the 1. Drain the fluid level in the system to inside the vehicle are well grounded. This is switched on, try reversing the wires on original warning light sender location. below the sender’s mounting location wire should be long enough to reach the the gauge connection posts “+” and “–”. 2. Do not over tighten the fittings or sender, which is normally the factory’s warning voltmeter mounting location. 3. If the gauge reads lower than you expect, particularly for mechanical gauges. The light sender location. 2. Connect another length of 18-gauge wire check all connections, especially those threads are designed to strip before the 2. Route the capillary tubing through to a location on the fuse box where the to a ground source. A poor connection engine component can be damaged. The the mounting hole for the gauge and wire will receive power whenever the causes resistance which gives a false low fittings use tapered self-sealing threads then through the firewall, protecting ignition key is in the START, ON, or AC- reading. and do not require extreme force to seal the tubing from rough edges. Form at CESSORY positions. This wire should also properly. least one 3" or larger loop of tubing as be long enough to reach the voltmeter. 3. Do not use sealing tapes or compounds it comes through the firewall and route on electrical senders as this will disturb the remainder to the sender mounting their grounding connection to the engine locations. resulting in false low readings. 3. Remove the warning light sender and 4. Take caution when uncoiling and routing install the proper adapter fitting into the the mechanical gauge capillary tubing engine block. that you do not bend it too sharply or 4. Insert the capillary tube tip into the flex it too often. Any break in the inner adapter’s hole and then tighten, with tube will make the gauge irreparable. A moderate pressure only, the captive fit- replacement service is available only at ting (Diagram 8) into the adapter. Do not the factory service center. over tighten. Sealing tape or compound 5. Always install the adapter fitting into the may be used on either connection.

8 9