2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Autometer Boost Gauge Install Help

[bhutchinson]

I recently purchased an Autometer Pyrometer, Boost gauge and pillar pod. It is not readily apparent to me where I am to install the pressure fitting for the boost gauge. My service manual shows the location of the manifold pressure sensor on the intake manifold (driver's side behind the fuel filter canister). To each side are some pretty heft threaded plugs. Could one of these be my connection point? I don't see anything on the turbo or intake horn itself. I know a lot of you guys do this yourselves. Thanks for the help.

 

[tarussell]

Welcome to the TDR !



I took off my intake horn and drilled it for the pipe fitting. There are other options , like where you are looking , but I choose the intake horn for my fitting. Look at some of the vendors that advertise on the TDR - they offer fittings to replace the plugs you are looking at to keep it simple. Going by memory I can't remember which plug goes to the manifold- but I am sure somebody much more knowledgeable will answer your questions.

I think the closer to the head you are the more accurate the pressure reading will be. Good Luck and use the seach option alot - you will find more info than you have time to read. Thomas

 

[Kyle]

Either of those two plugs is a good spot -- In front or behind the MAP sensor. They are both to the intake manifold. That's where I put my boost gauge. They're different sizes so it depends on which size adapter you can find (both are pipe thread). The one in front is bigger, but easier to access. Be careful with the wrench. That MAP sensor is easy to break and costs about $60 to replace. (don't ask how I know that)

 

[bhutchinson]

Boost gauge install

Kyle, do you remember what diameter the front plug is? Did you put some kind of thread sealant on the new plug? I won't ask you about the MAP sensor - thanks for the warning. Thanks guys, for your help.

 

[tractorface]

I bought an 18$ fitting from Piers. It replaces one of the manifold bolts. Slick deal, looks like it came from the factory.

 

[snowracer69]

if I remember correctly...

the plug in front of the map sensor is 3/4" pipe thread, and you have to reduce that down to 3/8" or whatever size the fittings that came with the boost gauge are. It's a simple install, easiest of all 4 gauges on my truck. And actually, after doing three other guy's pyrometers, they're getting easy too. I'm gonna have to start charging for this stuff... give some of these other guys a run for their money. J/K ya'll.

 

[bhutchinson]

Thanks for all the help, guys. I've already drilled, tapped and installed the Pyro probe (I helped my brother-in-law install a Banks kit on his '97 a while back - so I already had done that part, but with the turbo off).



I just ordered the boost fitting from Peirs - $25 bucks total with shipping. I think it will be the easiest to install - looks pretty clean on their website. I think the money I spend will save some cursing trying to get that plug out while balancing on a stool with one leg in the air, reaching over the brake system and under the fuel canister - only to break the MAP sensor and bust a few knuckles. Then, after I install the plug and new fitting (and spend $60 on the new MAP sensor and install it), the new fitting will leak and I'll have all kinds of problems. I think I'll use the KISS method instead.



By the way, now how do I wire these gauges? It's not like working on the '65 SS - easy to identify and reach fusebox and wires. I've got the service manual, but can any of you enlighten me from your installs. I want the gauges to light up and dim with the dash lights. Should I install an aux. fuse box or power strips - one for power, one for run circuit, and one for light circuit. I also have a warn winch wired into my system, but haven't wired the solenoid in yet - this needs to be on only when the engine is running.



Thanks again in advance for the info.

 

[Sixpack]

I spiced my lights into the ash tray light. Remove the ash tray and the bracket behind it. Then you'll have to remove the light from the bracket. Mine had an orange and an purple wire to the light. I spliced into the purple wire. Works fine and dims with the dash board lights. Hope this helps. Sixpack