which is better?

[scotty5]

which is better for gauges mechanical or electrical?

 

[marcmsj]

mechanical, they tend to be more accurate

 

[95blackGsTurbo]

You could make a case for both, I use both. Water Temp. is electrical and boost and oil pressure are mechanical. Mechanical is more accurate but if you puncture a boost or oil pressure hose your are screwed especially is you puncture the oil pressure one. Electrical is easier to run IMO but can get shorts and opens so... personal preference of which one you like better.

 

[L2RTSiAWD]

I don't suggest to run any mechanical gauges that involve liquid going into the cabin such as fuel or oil pressure.

 

[marcmsj]

I don't suggest to run any mechanical gauges that involve liquid going into the cabin such as fuel or oil pressure.

unless it's the water filled type

 

[ddavisaf]

, this debate could go on for years to come on this one thread alone.

It's personal opinion really. Mechanical are more accurate, but you run the risk of leaks and such that could 'cause engine damage if they go unchecked. Electrical could short out and whatnot and they are not as fast to react to changes in signal as mechanical.

You pick and we'll support you whichever way you go

 

[L2RTSiAWD]

I've used both types(for Boost) and they both have worked fine for me.

I like my current setup because there are less lines to run up the A-pillar, Just one small wire from the EL2 Control box to the back of the guage.

 

[leet]

Anything related to temperature monitoring I would use Thermocouples for. They react instantly. I've used capillary tubes as well but they aren't nearly as accurate or quick to react. TC's aren't cheap, however.

I use mechanical manifold pressure gauges.

As for oil pressure, the choice is yours. Electrical is inherently safer, but as stated, not as quick to react as a mechanical gauge.

Here's a picture of what both types displays look like. This display monitors Jacket Water Temps (in and out), Auxilary Water Temps (in and out), Oil Temp, Intake Manifold Temps (left and right bank), Oil Pressure, and Manifold Pressure (left and right bank).

 

[dr1665]

This display monitors Jacket Water Temps (in and out), Auxilary Water Temps (in and out), Oil Temp, Intake Manifold Temps (left and right bank), Oil Pressure, and Manifold Pressure (left and right bank).

I can't believe I never thought of that! I used to install those things to be used as heater controllers on SMT component tape-and-reel equipment (well, similar anyways). Nice, clean display package and simple wire-up. That would be a great idea for monitoring various temps on the engine.

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Gets me to thinking about individual EGT probes for each cylinder...

In regards to the question, I prefer not having anything hot or flammable coming into the cabin. I have an electric oil pressure right now, and will just use the Zeitronix Zt-2 display for my EGT, AFR, and boost gauge. Nice clean install and no pillar pods to clue in the guy in the next lane...

 

[ozzeran]

Anything related to temperature monitoring I would use Thermocouples for. They react instantly. I've used capillary tubes as well but they aren't nearly as accurate or quick to react. TC's aren't cheap, however.

I use mechanical manifold pressure gauges.

As for oil pressure, the choice is yours. Electrical is inherently safer, but as stated, not as quick to react as a mechanical gauge.

Here's a picture of what both types displays look like. This display monitors Jacket Water Temps (in and out), Auxilary Water Temps (in and out), Oil Temp, Intake Manifold Temps (left and right bank), Oil Pressure, and Manifold Pressure (left and right bank).

nice dash!

 

[99gst_racer]

I don't suggest to run any mechanical gauges that involve liquid going into the cabin such as fuel or oil pressure.

As with anything, it can be done safely.

Obviously, the crappy nylon line they send with the gauge will promote a leak. But if a person were to install one correctly, they would use stainless braided hose with AN fittings. Unless pressure is exceeding 1500 PSi, there will not be any leaks.

And with the massive price difference, accuracy difference, and the difference with the amount of wiring, I can easily see why people would choose mechanical over electrical.

 

[Ultimatedsm]

It depends on what the gauge is for, my Boost is mechanic, works great, my air to fuel is electrical. My EGT gauge is mechanical as well.

 

[ddavisaf]

Umm.... your EGT is electrical you mean?

 

[L2RTSiAWD]

As with anything, it can be done safely.

Obviously, the crappy nylon line they send with the gauge will promote a leak. But if a person were to install one correctly, they would use stainless braided hose with AN fittings. Unless pressure is exceeding 1500 PSi, there will not be any leaks.

Agreed, That's why I said I don't suggest it. If installed properly they shouldn't leak, but I wouldn't take the chance.