What basic gauges to run?

[Rhondasway]

I'd like to get some input on gauges to put in my folks' '03 dually. They tow with it, but not heavy, mostly used as a recreational vehicle. It is a 6-speed with Pac Brake (don't know if that makes a difference) and a mild chip, no other mods.
I'd like to keep the cost down, and installation as simple as possible, with only the most important gauges. I know we need pyro and boost, but anything else? Are there modern options that make is easier than the snake-nest necessary for my '98? :-laf
I have limited internet access, so be patient if I don't respond right away...
Thanks!

 

[AH64ID]

What is the mild chip?

Pyro is really all that is needed, boost is just fun to have unless they have an adjustable boost elbow.

 

[Prairie Dog]

Boost and pyro is all I've had for the last 13 years - and I agree the boost is just nice to watch.

 

[Jim W]

I have the Boost, EGT temperature and Transmission temperature gages mounted on my A-pillar. I do tend to watch the Boost and EGT’s when towing. Since I can go over 35PSI on the Boost gage plus tend to hit high in the 1200F or more when towing up a 7 to 8% with my 5er. I will drive by the Boost and EGT’s on the uphill pull trying to keep the Boost pressure around 30 and the EGT’s at 1000F I do this by dropping a gear when needed and feathering the accelerator pedal.

Just my $0.02.

Jim W.

 

[Rhondasway]

Thanks! My '98 has boost, pyro, and trans temp, but mine is an auto and transmission temp is critical. I wasn't sure if that applied to manuals too... Pyro is most important, but the boost gauge can tell a lot too, reflecting low fuel pressure or boost leaks (if you know what you should be running).
So no fuel pressure is needed? I know on the 24 valves it is pretty important, but know nothing about Common Rails other than they seem to run pretty dang good.

 

[mweiman]

You may be interested in the edge insight that genos garage carries, color screen for $299 and touch screen for $399 plus $100 for the EGT probe. I think all you have to do is plug in to the obd diagnostic plug and then install EGT probe and wires for it. Can be used to read codes and display several other guages.

 

[p-Bar]

Since you have a manual trans I would do oil pressure in place of the trans temp