Can't Decide

[Ramafid]

I want to buy some gauges and can't decide between VDO Vision's or Autometer Z series. I want the gauges to match the stock gauges as closely as possible ( Day and Night). Pros and cons would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[johnrv4]

I had VDO Vision Series gauges in my '98 and I plan on putting them in my current truck. I can tell you that with the green bulb condoms, they look very close to the original gauges. I like the way they look(illuminated needles), and I like the fact that you can run two probes (through a switch) to the EGT guage (did it on my '98 and it worked great). I guess what I don't like is the fact that they don't have a boost guage that goes over 30psi. Also, the EGT guage has a smaller light bulb than the boost guage and it doesn't come with the colored bulb covers. I purchased a set of three green ones from Autometer and used them. I don't have any experience with the Autometer guages, but everyone I know that uses them has had positive results.

 

[dresslered]

I've always had very good luck with the reliability of the VDO gauges. The Visions probably match the interior of the Ram the closest. The drawback is that the Visions don't have a fuel pressure gauge which is why I ended up with a mixture of VDO and autometer.

 

[EMDDIESEL]

The Autometer Z series are close to stock appearence, but a better quality gauge is an Autometer Sport Comp series that you can order with a black bezel for about 4 bucks more a gauge. Then get the blue bulb covers and your all set.

 

[SFord]

I thought about it for a long time and finally bought the Z series to match the factory gauges. Glad I did, like them alot.

 

[Bob Cochran]

Dratz!! posted this thread on another forum!!! Well I will paste it here to!!!!



I was looking through the Autometer homepage and it appears the Z series looks the most like the stock guages with black background, white numerals and orange/red needles. I will be wanting the electrical not mechanical as well. Has anybody bought this seris boost, pyro and fuel pressure gage along with their 3 gauge Apillar with tweeter? What do you think of these guages and Apillar? I have not called yet but about what does all the above cost? Don't give exact number estimate will do!! I am thinking of calling them Friday to order put all your guys help be appreciated!!!!



Some of you already answered some of my questions.

 

[SFord]

Go to www.summitracing.com, they have what you want in the Z series for the best price. pillar and gauges around 260.

 

[Bob Wagner]

you won't go wrong

with the VDO Vision Series from www.egauges.com



and I know someone that upgraded to Spa gauges that

may sell his VDO vision series that are in perfect condition



VDO is a high quality gauge, I love mine the lighting is 2nd to none.

 

[Oasis-3]

Isspro

Ramafid I got my Isspro's in that I got in Muncie and I like them.

The boost looks like stock the EGT has some color to it I don't know about the auto temp gage.



Did you have a safe ride home from Muncie I left at 8pm got home at 5am none stop about 18. 5 mpg



hope to see ya again I had a good time

Cliff

 

[Bob Cochran]

I was at the Summit Racing page picking the Autometer Z series guages. I never found a boost gauge in this serious listed. I guess will need to call the order. Also when I looked at the price for the electric fuel pressure gauge choked, $175!!!! Now I have to decide if I want mechanical with possible fuel in my cab or maybe I need a 2 pod Apillar and not install the fuel gauge. Very nervous about running fuel line in the cab. Any thoughts on this subject?

 

[SFord]

Do not run the fuel line inside the cab.

 

[KatDiesel]

Originally posted by SFord

Do not run the fuel line inside the cab.

Why not? This is diesel we are talking about... . not gas. Worst thing that will happen is will develop a leak and smell like diesel. No big deal? I would have no worries about running diesel into the cab, gas is another story.

 

[EMDDIESEL]

Dont forget you can get an isolator if you are really worried about Fuel in the cab. Bottom line is, you are talking about 20psi max of a non volitle liquid. If you plumb it properly, it should be fine. Diesel fuel is not like gasoline where it can explode into a flash fire if a line ruptures, worst case scenario like Kat Diesel said is your truck will have a fuel smell. I have never seen pressure gauges rupture, i have seen hoses burst, but 99% of time its due to chaffing. If you dont want to use an isolator, run AN line which is overkill in that it will hold over 1,000 psi which would make a line bursting impossible.

 

[SFord]

As we all now diesel will not explode like gasoline but can you imagine what it would take to get the smell of fuel out of your cab. I agree that if the right plumbing job is done you should not have a problem but why worry about it, just use a isolator.

 

[Bob Cochran]

Okay decided to go electric fuel gauge and not take the chance. Here is the list of what I am buying Z series Autometer tomorrow from Summit Racing.



ATM17205 3 guage Apillar with speaker

ATM2646 EGT

ATM2661 Electric Fuel Pressure

ATM3207 Blue lens covers

ATM2616 Boost



Is this right or am I missing anything? Remember I will not be bombing. Thanks everyone.

 

[Ramafid]

Thanks to everyone that responded. I guess I'm leaning towards the VDO's but I really want a fuel pressure gauge also. I don't want to mix and match. Decisions decisions. I'll have lots of time to think on my way to Mass. and back this weekend so I guess I'll make up my mind when I get home. Once again, thanks for the help.

 

[OutbackDiesel]

Does anybody like the Banks Dynafact gauges?