Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) SPA Differential Temp Gauge Install

[RADdodge]

Has anyone installed a SPA temperature gauge to the differential? I got under the truck today to do a pre-installation check and think I need an additional 8' of cable! I'd make my own extension cable, but the SPA plugs are probably hard to find. I suppose I could (ouch!) cut the cable and extend it. Has anyone already done this? Thanks.

 

[Bigsaint]

I'm not sure that there is a extension available from SPA, could be wrong. I was lazy, mine spent some time monitoring the outside ambient air, then fuel temp. , and now water temp. I'd just cut the wires and resplice with a similar gauge. Be sure to solder and shrink wrap.



Scott W.

 

[BarryG]

Yeah you would think that a differential gauge wire for a truck 20+ feet long would come with more than 8 feet of wire. I extended mine with no problem. I spliced it in, used solder, butt connectors, tape and shrink tubing to keep it dry has worked great for over year half so far. Only problem was those SPA's wire harnesses have two plugs and I did it before I hooked up the transmission sender. Got all done with my splice and darned if I didn't splice the wrong freaking lead. I went through the roof. Got to do it again. Both splices have held up well so far.

 

[JohnMcIntyre]

Don't forget the Z - factor!

Something else for you to think about. Besides actually reaching the rear pumpkin easily, make sure your connections are water tight, and pay special attention to the connections themselves, ensuring a good physical and electrical connection end to end.



Something that has not yet been mentioned, is to keep an eye on your Z - aka impedance matching - if you splice into a short loom from SPA - these gauges are suceptible to eroneous readings, if the Z factor is out of tolerance/whack.



When I installed mine with support from Blair (BPINE) over in San Jose, California last year, I was able to use a single SPA wiring loom whcih was plenty long enough for my 3500 long bed. When I ordered mine from SPA Indianapolis via Nowell, the kit came with sufficient length in the wiring, so I thought this was the standard?



I have the Mark 1s so things could have changed slightly for the Mark 2s. You did not say which type you were going with? SPA home office is actually based out of England, just across the big pond and I have visited them once - their factory uses a converted, unused Baptist chapel in the West Midlands not far from Birmingham. A nice bunch of people and good after care too.