Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Fuel Pressure Gauge

[DTullis]

Truck is 02 3500 2-wheel drive HO with 6 spd.



I know I need a fuel pressure gauge and was thinking about the single gauge mount to go under the dash.



Biggest question is do I actually need the boost and EGT gauges?



I tow a 15K 5th wheel trailer and my performance is satisfactory. I am an old guy that usually drives between 60 and 65.



I would like your opinion as to the need for the boost and EGT gauges before I buy the single mount for fuel pressure.



Thanks for your assistance,

don tullis

 

[AggieJustin]

I've had good luck with the Westach electrical FP gauge. It's been in for over a year and a half with no problems. I mounted mine using a bullet mount from Geno's on the side of the shift tower.



Gauges are always a good investment since it helps you monitor more of what's going on under the hood. If you plan on staying stock, they're not required but still a nice to have.



If you're looking for mounting options, I use a two gauge pillar for my Boost and EGT. Then the bullet mount for my FP. You can check out pictures in my gallery of how everything is laid out.



JM

 

[OTRPU]

I'm pushin the big 60 myself. Tow for a livin. . . and think the EGT Guage should be a law. I hit 1,500 EGT the other day towing a stack up the hills I-70W in Utah. If I hadn't had the guage I'd never have known and stayed on it. Would have certainly have had a melt down as long as some of those hill are. Have you seen the steering column single guage mount? I think that's where my Fuel Pressure Guage will be going. Admittedly, run outta room for guages fast in that cockpit.



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Tow Safe,

Steve J.

 

[RJOL]

Don...



You're going to get a variety of opinions here, so here's my $. 02 worth.



I agree with JM... I've had a Westach FP gauge installed for 3 years with no problems. Don't mount it directly to the VP44 or filter without using a snubber as the engine vibration can be a problem for the sender.



If you haven't added any power mods, and you don't tow over the big hills and mountain passes, you may be alright without an EGT gauge. Just be aware that you can exceed the temp limits, while towing a heavy load, under certain conditions. One area that doesn't get talked about very much is the problems with shutting down your engine while it's still too hot. You should not shut down the engine with temps over 300 degrees, as it can cause long term problems with your turbo. There have been many times that I've pulled into parking (no trailer) and the engine temp has been close to 500 degrees. Especially after climbing a grade and even on a short trip around town.



Everything considered, I'm glad I installed my Westach EGT/Boost combo gauge and FP gauge (3 yrs ago). They provide a lot of info about your engine performance, and if you can install them yourself or have someone who can do it for you, they aren't all that expensive, considering what you paid for your truck. Have fun...