Boost Gauge issues

[Splitpi]

I currently have an autometer mechanical boost gauge and lately with the engine off it is reading about -8 psi at the manifold. It used to read 0 psi. And listening for my turbo to spool up, it seems to be making boost prior to the gauge stating it is. I think the gauge has lost calibration... or perhaps somehow the hose got pinched (I will check this). Anyone, had similar problems? What is the best guage to get if indeed it is not calibrated any longer? I was thinking of going electronic, like the greddy... but I would really like a guage that reads in psi, versus bars. Any suggestions?

 

[skinnykenny84]

well if you tapped into the intake mani it will work but is not the best source, check this out
http://vfaq.com/index-main.html
you need to tap into the fuel pressure regulator seloniod. also I personaly dont like the skinny plastic hose provided with most gauges, I would reconnect at the location mentioned
above with a vaccume line like the ones going to your turbo. If your not running yours this way and would like to let me know. If your still confused feel free to PM me
good luck

 

[skinnykenny84]

also a gauge is pretty basic, so if you havnt beat the hell out of yours it should be fine. I would try ^ this before buying a new gauge.

 

[Splitpi]

Thanks Skinny for the reply... I was mistaken, it is off the FPR as the vfaq states. My mistake.

 

[skinnykenny84]

ok, well I wasnt thinking about the gauge reading vaccume with the engine off. I think it time to get a new gauge!

 

[skinnykenny84]

as far as suggestions on a new one I think the autometer is the best bang for the buck. I have had mine since '97 on my first dsm, and 3 dsms later its still working great!

 

[zippyshoe]

I had the same type of issue with my Autometer mechanical boost gauge - with the engine off, my gauge was reading about 10 inches of vacuum. I replaced my boost gauge and now my new gauge reads 0 psi with the engine off every time. I also turned down my MBC after observing that my boost pressure read on the new boost gauge was a couple psi higher than what the old gauge registered. I am now careful to check that the gauge returns to 0 psi whenever I shut the engine off.

 

[skinnykenny84]

you all ready changed it out? damn thats fast, wish my car was that fast!

 

[zippyshoe]

Yeah, if your boost gauge does not read 0 psi or close to it after your engine is shut off its almost a sure bet that the gauge is defective.