Help to start Gauge install

[Iroc_g]

OK, i finally have started ordering may gauges for my 2g awd, and i was wondering what the best place to get a switched power source is. I will eventually have 5 or 6 gauges as i am ordering 2 every paycheck. I thought it would be a good idea to run one 12gauge wire from this powersource and tap into it for each gauge, and do the same for the gauge lighting and grounds. Then, the only wires running around will be the sensor inputs. This will also alow me to have one fuse fo rall of them, but i want a good place to tap into the power.

 

[DSMcamaro]

your talking about the power sorce to light up the gauges right? I hooked mine up in the fuse panel to a plug in that only came on when the car was on. You can buy a simple test light at any autoparts store if you dont already have one to check and see what plug/connector to tap into. You could also add a switch in the line if you wish.

 

[krisj144]

just how many gauges do you plan on having? also what type? while it may be neat to be bombarded with sensory inputs from the driver's seat, this money may be better spent elsewhere as most get by just fine with a boost gauge and wideband a/f.

for the light source, you'll want to take it off the dimmer switch if you'd like to retain some control over the luminosity.

for the power for electric gauges, you'll be good taking it off the fuse block by the drivers kick panel. use an unused accessory if available, such as power seats. you don't need anything crazy as I highly doubt the amp draw off your dozen or so guages is going to overwhelm a 14-16 gauge wire.

 

[force it in]

Here's a link that may help you. http://www.plymouthlaser.com/bez.htm

 

[kahl23]

I tapped into the ignition switched source. It runs underneath the steering console. If you remove the lower trim panel and wiggle under there, look up at the steering console. If you lay on your back and look up, there is a blue and clear plastic connector on the right side of the steering column. There should be five or six wires running out of it including two blue wires, a white wire, a white and black wire, and a black and red wire. Disconnect the harness connector and undo the plastic tubing that conceals the wires. Just cut the wire and add in the gauge's power wire. It takes some guts to cut apart the ignition's power, but if you practice crimping a few times you should be alright. Shoot me an pm if you have any questions. Also, if you're looking for a specific wire in the future, check out this link:
http://www.vfaq.com/mods/wiring-gen2wir.html

 

[kahl23]

One more thought. If you have the money, you might want to check out Autometer's Nexus series. These are the gauges I have and if you are planning on putting in multiple gauges, this series is very easy. All gauges and sensor run to a control module. Check out autometer's website to better understand how the system works.

 

[Iroc_g]

Thanks for the help all. In awnser to the questions, im planning on 6 to 8 gauges. Boost, Air/Fuel, Oil Pressure, Oil Temp, Water Temp, EGT, Volt. I havent decided yet, but i really want to do a tach, speedo, fuel level too because i really dislike the stock gauges.

I am using Stewart Warner Maximum's.

Yes, the Nexus stuff is really cool. I looked at them at PRI. Im not ready to spend that kind of money though.

UPDATE: Well i started to dig around under the dash for a power source, and apparently the previous owner had quite a few gauges as well. The wiring honestly scarred me to look at, so i spent 3 hours carfully removing it all. I pulled out over 60 feet of wire, and theres still a few more i think should come out after i make sure there's nothing else tapped into them.!!!