Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Gauge Installation For Dummys

[fleahead]

OK... so I'm semi mechanically challenged. Just got my TST gauges today, and jumped right into em', as I've been studying the instructions for days. Didn't look like too hard a job.



Got the 5/16 hole drill... . easy. Tried to find a flex magnet small enough to get in the hole. None of the auto parts stores has any small enough to fit the hole. All I have and all they have are too big.



Started the tap OK. As I was going to test fit the probe, I realized that the tubing attached to the probe won't allow me to turn it into the hole. Can the compression fitting be removed so the probe is free.



I presume I can call TST in the morning and ask them, but I figure one of you experienced guys will know. Looks like Murphy's Law is going to take effect.

 

[TSRAM]

Yes, by all means take the lead off.

 

[TSRAM]

After you got the hole tapped, were you able to get a magnet in? You could try a vacuum, obviously the best method is to loosen the turbo and wedge in a baffle between and crank the truck for a moment.

 

[fleahead]

Thanks, I was afraid the compression fitting would be ruined by removing it. The lame instructions make no reference.



If I loosen the turbo, do I run a risk of damaging the gasket? I considered trying a piece of tubing attached to a shop vac to suck out any metal.

 

[Andy Redmond]

Put the any magnet on the screwdriver shaft for an extension.



You need a small telescoping (sp) magnet.



Mark @ TST shared with me once that small amounts of chaff are fine! I'll let him share his story of his testing with the larger pieces of "FOD"



Seriously, if you get most of them, no need to remove the turbo.



The gasket is a "tin" design and should likely be replaced for proper sealing, if removed.



Another tip, if you grease your drills most of the metal stays on the drill/grease.

 

[Howard Durand]

Find a piece of iron wire small enough to go in the hole, wrap it aroung a good magnet and use it to probe the hole.

 

[fleahead]

I ended up grinding the magnet to fit the hole, and soldered it to a piece if stiff wire. Fished everything out. Got the gauges all install, and then installed the TST power kit. Everything came out OK. The hardest part was beating out the headless bolt, but when in doubt, get a bigger hammer.

Thanks...