Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Which Gauges First?

[rblomquist]

Thinking about getting a fuel box in the near future but from what I read the first thing people should get is gauges.



My question is which gauges are most important i. e. if I want to buy/install them in one at a time. I'm thinking it's a toss up between tran temp and EGT for the first gauge then boost. I have a briar hooper FP gauge already and since it's so easy to slap on and check FP periodically I don't think I'm really interested in spending the $ for a permanent FP guage.



Thanks.

 

[Deezul1]

EGT is by far the most important gauge when doing fueling upgrades. The EGTs will climb real fast when adding fuel especially when towing. With the gauge you will know when to lift your foot to keep from damaging the engine, install pre-turbo for best results.

 

[mikel]

EGT no question about it.



After that I'd recommend Fuel Pressure and Trans Temp as either one next and the other after that. Then get boost if you want. On your truck EGT, FP, and Trans Temp will be the most important ones. Having Boost will help in troubleshooting and kinda looks cool, but is nowhere near as important as the other three.



Good Luck,

Mike

 

[rblomquist]

That's what I was thinking but since I don't have any fueling upgrades yet I was wondering if the trans temp gauge would be more appropriate at the present time, then EGT, then maybe boost?

 

[mikel]

Running stock you *shouldn't* need the EGT, so yes if you keep the engine stock then the trans temp might be a better choice for your first gauge.



A few people said that they could hit 1300 stock when loaded and pulling a hill for a few miles, so keep that in mind when you are out towing. Even then though I'd think that you might get into transmission temp trouble doing that so once again it's a toss-up.



Hope this helps.



good luck,

mike

 

[78repowerwagon]

Check out the TST products or the Blue Chip FMS. Both boxes automatically defuel at high exhaust temps so you don't have to keep one eye On the EGT. TST has a built in EGT/Boost/Trans temp gauge and Blue Chip has EGT/Boost/Low fuel press warning. I know you are just doing gauges for now, I saved a little longer and got the box with built in gauges and glad I did. For the price of good gauges and the pillar mount you can also have the ability to defuel and save a motor. Pillar gauges only work if you happen to see it and lift your foot.

Matt

 

[rblomquist]

78,



That may be a very good idea (waiting and doing all at once). I'm intrigued with both of those you mentioned. Where is a good place (vendor website etc) to find out more about those products?



I'm still new and learning about all these products/options.

 

[78repowerwagon]

You can check out TST at www.tstproducts.com and blue chip at www.bluechipdiesel.com if I typed something wrong you can go to links and engine perf.

 

[Joe Mc]

rblomquist,



As much info as we've learned re: our dreaded lift pumps here, MHO says FP gauge, then trans, then Boost/EGT. I too have the Briar gauge - it's very easy to hook up I agree but, nothing replaces the piece of mind being able to see 15 psi @ start up and being able to monitor WOT psi - all the time



Myself . . . I saved a bit then did all three at once on the "A" pillar. Nice slow paced weekend project. Presently saving for TC & VB, then bombs away on the fueling systemOo.