Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Oil pressure gauge to test fuel pressure?

[JRichard]

Alright guys, shoot my if im completley outta line here, but what if one was to plumb a manual oil pressure gauge into the top of the fuel filter housing at the test port, using copper line instead of that chincy plastic stuff. Would the oil pressure gauge be able to hold up to the corrosive nature of the diesel fuel per-se?



Cautiously waiting for bullets to fly



Jake

 

[rkressg]

Never tried it, but I do not see how this would be any worse than dirty hot oil. The pressure gauge might read well at pressures that low (5-20psi) where as an oil pressure gauge is desinged for higher pressures. \



You are using a mechanical gauge correct?



-Rich

 

[JRichard]

Thats the basic idea, mechanical oil pressure gauge to read fuel pressure

 

[JRichard]

bump bump bumpity bumps



Hot topic, not many responses though!

 

[Walt-L]

IMO, fuel and oil may have different rubber compound requirements to go the long hall. Secondly, Iv been told that they NEVER use copper lines on Diesel fuel because something in the fuel makes the copper brittle. You would think it would be OK to use since # 2 heating oil is always run through copper. Unless it has to do with on the engine vibration makeing the copper go brittle. At the end of the day you are probably better off just useing conventional gear to do what you want. I once knew a guy who did 3 tours in Nam. Considering his unit, it was a death wish every time. And he made it home in one piece... . physicaly that is. Go for it ! whats a little spilled fuel any way :-laf

 

[kdcrockett]

Last year I used a T connector and hooked up a mechanical pressure gauge to verify the readings on my electrical gauge. I used an inexpensive 0-15 lb. gauge that advertised as being suitable for a variety of liquids. I purchased copper tubing but initially used the plastic tubing to temporarily place the gauge inside the cab. I still haven't done the copper tubing install. Everything seems to work fine. No leaks. Consistant readings, unlike the electrical gauge. You shouldn't have any problems. In terms on longevity, don't know yet.

 

[JRichard]

Whered u get your gauge, kdcrockett?

 

[kdcrockett]

Sorry its taken so long to get back. I think I purchased the gauge from Great Northern.

 

[KLockliear]

Pressure is pressure - the gauge will read it. With Autometer (the stuff we carry), any of their pressure gauges will work with diesel.



Also, I'd recommend plumbing in at the banjo at the inlet to the pump (assuming you're still running stock fuel lines/fittings).

 

[BDMiller]

I've had a NAPA mechanical oil pressure gauge as a backup for my Westach fuels pressure gauge. One is pre filter one is post filter & it has worked like a charm for at least 6 months so far. It also saved me a heart attack a couple times when the electric sending unit got all squirrely on me. Never had a leak & I just used the plastic tubing that came with the gauge. I believe total cost was $10.

 

[terrywerm]

IMO, fuel and oil may have different rubber compound requirements to go the long hall. Secondly, Iv been told that they NEVER use copper lines on Diesel fuel because something in the fuel makes the copper brittle. You would think it would be OK to use since # 2 heating oil is always run through copper. Unless it has to do with on the engine vibration makeing the copper go brittle. At the end of the day you are probably better off just useing conventional gear to do what you want. I once knew a guy who did 3 tours in Nam. Considering his unit, it was a death wish every time. And he made it home in one piece... . physicaly that is. Go for it ! whats a little spilled fuel any way :-laf

Walt-L touched on the right reason to not use copper - it work hardens and gets brittle from movement, even small movements from vibration. The fuel itself won't have any effect on the copper.

 

[Got Smoke?]

I bought a 0-100psi off-brand oil press gauge @ Advance for 12 bucks to use as a temporary FP gauge. Had good enough idications between 0-20 & 0-40 for me, and I've used it a few times now works great, but really need a snubber/needle valve for it.

 

[Froadin]

I just used my old 0-30 boost gauge. Works perfect.

 

[Got Smoke?]

I just used my old 0-30 boost gauge. Works perfect.

(knowing full & well which forum I'm in, just for search preferences)



A 0-30 boost gauge will work fine for a 24V motor, however a minimum of a 40lb gauge would be desirable for a 12V motor.

 

[Froadin]

Got Smoke,

Actually, it helps to add that comment here. I know I would have liked to see more comments like this when I first researched the topic.



And yeah, the 12V guys definitely need a higher pressure gauge.

 

[Got Smoke?]

Got Smoke,

Actually, it helps to add that comment here. I know I would have liked to see more comments like this when I first researched the topic.



And yeah, the 12V guys definitely need a higher pressure gauge.

That's why I added it!