Gauges & Accessories

How high is your boost pressure, does the oil pressure drop in long corners, and is the engine running too lean under full load? Additional gauges give you the numbers so you can react in time. This category brings together individual gauges, speedometers, tachometers, complete kits, shift lights, sending units and accessories for those who tune, do track days or want to keep an eye on an older project car.

What gauges can tell you

Factory instruments often show only the bare essentials. Additional gauges give precise readings of e.g. boost pressure, oil pressure and air/fuel ratio, so you can see whether the engine stays within its limits after a modification. Among the individual gauges you will find e.g. AutoMeter boost and oil pressure gauges in 52 mm. A wideband lambda gauge such as the AEM Dig Wideband Gauge shows the air/fuel ratio, which can be important when tuning the engine management. The category also includes e.g. the AEM X-Series inline wideband controller with Bosch 4.9LSU sensor.

How to choose the right gauge

A mechanical gauge receives pressure directly through a line into the cabin and requires no power. An electronic gauge uses a sending unit on the engine, so only a wire needs to go inside. Several gauges are available in both versions, e.g. AutoMeter Ultra-Lite 0-100 PSI for oil pressure. Also consider:

• Measuring range: it should cover your highest value with a margin, but an overly wide range gives a coarser reading.
• Connection: the thread must match the port, e.g. 1/8 NPT.
• Diameter and appearance: e.g. 52 mm, colour and series, so the gauges match.
• Purpose: should the gauge simply monitor, or will it also be used when tuning the engine?

Installation, sending units and accessories

Place the gauges where you can read them without taking your eyes far off the road. Mounts such as the AutoMeter Black 52mm Gauge Cup and other gauge accessories make it easier to find a fixed position. Electronic gauges require a sending unit designed for that specific gauge, otherwise the reading may be incorrect – check compatibility for the specific part number. Use suitable thread sealant, and regularly inspect pressure lines and wiring for wear and leaks. A lambda sensor must be positioned in the exhaust according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Shift lights, warning lights and inspection

Shift lights and warning lights catch your attention while your eyes are on the road or track, and can e.g. light up at a specific rpm or limit value. In this category you will also find brands such as BLOX Racing, OMIX and Rugged Ridge. Whether additional gauges, a new speedometer or warning lights will pass vehicle inspection depends on the product, the car and the installation. The speedometer must still show the correct speed, and any approval must be checked for the specific part number.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a mechanical and an electronic oil pressure gauge?

The mechanical one receives oil pressure through a line into the cabin and requires no power. The electronic one reads a sending unit on the engine via a wire. The choice depends on installation, space and whether you want to avoid oil in the cabin.

Which measuring range should I choose for boost pressure?

Choose a range that covers your highest boost pressure with a little margin. An overly wide range makes small fluctuations harder to read. In this category we have e.g. boost gauges for 30 and 35 psi.

Why is my electronic gauge reading incorrectly?

It may be due to a sending unit that does not match the gauge, a poor ground connection or a faulty wire. Check that the sending unit and gauge are designed for each other, and that the connections are clean and secure.