What gauges should I buy?

[opiefire]

I am new to the exciting diesel truck ownership world. I have a 2003 HO 2500 48re QC Laramie. The only after market performance part that I have installed is the AFE Pro gaurd with the tourqe tube. I am trying to decide what type of power performance upgrade I am going to do. I pull a 10,000 lb fifth wheel for recreational camping. I currently live in Wichita Kansas, however I am from Idaho and plan on returning in about a year (so I have lots of mountains to tow up and down). First things first though I am now going to have gauges installed this month. I hope to have them installed on the A-post.

#1) What brand should I install.

#2) I know I need a exhaust temp and a turbo Boost gauge what other gauge or gauges should I put on?

#3) Is the A-post a good place?

#4) Where is a good place to have the exhaust temp gauge hooked up on the engine?

#5) To have all this installed what is a ball park price I should expect to pay?

#6) Any other advice is welcomed, and also any recommendation for power upgrades is greatly appreciated.



Thanks in advance.

 

[Cummins4Life]

#1 The ones that look best to you

#2 Transmission temp (if auto), and fuel pressure

#3 Yes but some think gauges decrease visibilty around the Apillar

#4 In the exhaust manifold, 3/4-1" above the turbo mating flange

#5 Just for labor I'd venture $250+ but probably more

#6 Look for TDR members in your area who have gauges that you can see in person to see what you like. Also look for local members who could help with the install to save some $$. Look through the "Readers Rigs" to see various brands of gauges installed in various locations.

 

[opiefire]

Zach,

Thanks for the quick reply. I am a little suprised at cost of install. I will look for members in my area for a look at their set up, or possible help. You recommend a trans temp (I do have a automatic) and a fuel pressure gauge. Can all this be fit into the Apost? Thanks again Zach.

 

[Cummins4Life]

I believe the most you can fit on the post is 3. So you'll have to put an oddball somewhere else. A good way to do this is to put 3 down below the radio in the cubby hole the get a SRT10 pillar cover that comes with 1 gauge mount below the grab handle. Or you could do 2 on the pillar and 2 on the steering column. Just whatever is pleasing to your eye.



I installed 3 gauges in a friends 02 a few weeks ago, after that I dont think 250 labor is too bad lol. He got a quote from the local diesel shop, gauges (egt, boost, trans temp) and install was $750. If you can do it yourself or with the help of a friend you save some dough and you know you have a quality install.

 

[CarlJensen]

I use combo gauges and that gives you room for six on the pillar. Some people don't like them because they are hard to read for them but it's all personal preference. Mine are in a dash pod 'cause I don't like pillar mount (see what I mean by preference). I am fairly new to this and the best move I made was look at other rigs and talk to owners before spending any loot!

 

[opiefire]

I went to a couple of truck performance part dealers today and got some quotes. For three gauges on the a-pillar the price is $ 477. 00 NOT INSTALLED. The places I went to only sold the gauges... . no installation avaliable. One shop owner tried to sell me the EDGE attitude. The benefit with the edge is having all gauges on one screen. The cost was 600 for the edge box and another $300 for the screen monitor. He also warned me that my warranty would be voided if I installed the edge and did damage to my engine. Any suggestions?

 

[Bertram65]

I have the Autometer phantom series, I have EGT in a SRT-10 pillar mount, and trans temp, engine oil temp, and boost in the cubby under the heater controls. Autometer are made in the US and are good reliable gauges, I have a couple pictures in my reader rig gallery of them .

 

[Black-Smoker]

Anyone ever mount a fuel pressue gauge in the speaker hole on the a-pillar. Does anybody know the diameter of this hole.

 

[opiefire]

Bertram65





Thanks for the advice. I also looked at your pics. Great job!

 

[Tony T.]

X-Monitor

Well nobody mentioned the X-Monitor, I have the pyro,trans,boost model. I have it mounted on the A-piller an it does not obstruct my view at all. It will record all your high max temps & boost, an has a alarm. Being digtal read out it does have a problem in direct sunlight being readable with dark sunglasses on. I usually just knod my head back a little to see the readings without any problem. Real nice at night though. It was a toss up between the trans model or the fuel pressure model. I'm planning on a fuel pressure gauge some time soon, have'nt decide what kind or location.



Price for the X was- $450. 00

Install- $280. 00





Tony

 

[RJOL]

Take a look at your Geno's insert for a good idea on choices and prices. You don't have to spend a lot (more money does not always mean a better gauge). You can get Westach gauges in dual configuration and that will save you space. Dial gauges are always easier to comprehend (IMHO) as you will get used to seeing them at a set position when reading them and just have to glance at them to see if everything is ok. Have fun...

 

[Kellydown]

The problem with digital gauges: you have to read them, instead of a quick glance at a needle. But there are some people who prefer digital watches, so to each his own. Its all about personal pref.

 

[JRMora]

Zach,

Thanks for the quick reply. I am a little suprised at cost of install. I will look for members in my area for a look at their set up, or possible help. You recommend a trans temp (I do have a automatic) and a fuel pressure gauge. Can all this be fit into the Apost? Thanks again Zach.

I have only two gages (boost & pyro), but used the A pillar and Column mounts. I have pictures in my gallery.



I was hesitent to drill and tap for my pyrometer thermocouple so I called a couple of shops in town - they wanted $250-$300 just to install the thermocouple (I had already installed and wired the gage). Needless to say, I took the plunge and did it myself (about a 2 hr job for me - and that was the first time)



I have DiPricols and am generally happy with them, thought some have had problems with their pyrometer (the white disk in the center fell off!, but they weer all fixed under warranty). I like the match in the daytime and they look good at night also.



If you want four gages, do the Autometer in dash (whoops! you have a Laramie and can't do that). Never mind



Good luck!



Juan

 

[opiefire]

Juan,

Thanks for the advice. I will go look at your pics. David

 

[1Tufdsl]

I have only two gages (boost & pyro), but used the A pillar and Column mounts. I have pictures in my gallery.

Juan, I really like your setup. How does that Column Mount look up close. Does it have the same fit and finish as stock and can you get it in taupe?