Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Where do I get a gauge to check fuel pressure

[CTD12V]

I want to test my fuel pressure to diagnose the overflow valve, lift pump, etc. The Haynes manual just says to use a 0-60 or 0-100 psi fuel pressure gauge, with a special banjo bolt adapter from the dealer parts department, yada yada.



Well, it is turning out to be harder than I thought to locate a fuel pressure gauge that is compatible with diesel engines. The only test gauges I can find at the auto parts stores are ones that say "not for use with diesel".



So, where do I find one? Would Snap-On or Mac tools or somebody like that have one? I suppose they would probably cost an arm and a leg.



Which brings me to my main question--Are the gauges designed for mounting in the cab (like Isspro, Westach, etc. ) as accurate as ones designed for shop diagnostic use? I eventually intend to get a full set of in-cab gauges anyway, which would include a fuel pressure gauge, so if they are just as accurate I might as well spend my money once and just get the fuel pressure setup now.



Any advice/suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thanks,



CTD12V

 

[Joe G.]

Westach makes gauges that are aircraft quailifed. The electronic one I use agreed with a mechanical gaude that I had before it. I drilled and tapped the banjo fitting where the fuel line from the filter goes to the injection pump. Drill from the rear because the shape of the banjo fitting will keep the bit straight. You also need to use something to dampen the pressure spikes from the lift pump. I use a needle valve. Open it until the gauge barely works. I also use a grease gun hose so I can mount the pressure sending unit someplace that does not vibrate like the engine does. Here is what my installation looks like:



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[24V-DSL]

Call Rip Rook.





http://www.sourceautomotive.biz/sa_dodge-fuel.htm

 

[sparks57]

Ditto on Rip Rook.



Most FP gauges say not to put them in the cab, and if you don't like the thought of a fuel line in your cab you can mount it in the engine compartment or use an isolator.

 

[Joe G.]

Electronic gauges don't require a fuel line in the cab.

 

[CTD12V]

Thanks for the replies so far, everybody. Keep 'em coming. I think I'll give Rip a call and get more details on the connection end of his gauge.



Joe G, thanks for the picture. Where did you mount your sending unit to eliminate vibrations?



I ordered another regular banjo bolt from Cummins to use for drilling and tapping so I didn't screw up my original one, and they sent me the bolt that is already threaded for the overflow valve. Anybody know what thread size/pitch the OF valve is? I haven't taken the banjo bolt to a machine shop to find out yet.

 

[Joe G.]

I mounted it on the fender well about even with the master cylinder. I have no idea what the thread is in what you got, but I would be surprised if it was NPT.