Gauges!! -- Mechanical or Electrical ?

[Red514LX]

This spring/summer I'm going to be fitting my lx out with some basic gauges: fuel pressure, oil pressure, temp., etc.

I like the look of the Autometer Pro-Comp Ultra-Lites (White gauge faces).

Should I buy the electrical or mechanical type? Should I also opt for the liquid-filled gauges?

Here's the criteria:
-I want the most accurate version
-I'd like them to last the life of the car
-They will be mounted INSIDE the car in
the typical vent slots or heater slots

Price and difficulty of install are NOT important.

Thanks in advance. All replies appreciated!!

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Jeff Kane
1990 LX Mustang ex-5.0 Coupe
No engine. No transmission.
Prepping car for a "big" big-block.
http://hometown.aol.com/red514lx/

[95Convert]

I have used both. I have the mechanicals in my '86 and the electrical in my '95. It really depends on how much work you want to do. I like the electrical gauges myself, easy to install and work great. Electrical gauges are more expensive than mechanical in most cases.

[82 GT]

I like the mechanical gauges because they are more reliable than electrical.
Electrical gauges can give false reading if there is ever trouble with wiring such as shorts,overloads etc.


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'82 GT 351W C-4,BBK headers,Carter 625 carb,Comp.Cam,Flowmaster exhaust.
1988 GT...T-5,bone stock

[MDM]

I recommend electrical for the FP gauge. If you want it inside the car, it is the way to go. I have used the mechanical gauge with isolator setup and believe me you're better off not dealing with that. The gauge attaches to the regulator or to the schrader valve on the line. It costs about $185, but is worth it. I have no problem with vibration on any of my gauges mounted in the vents so if you are thinking of that location, you probably don't need liquid filled. I do not presently have any gauges on the pillar, so I can't speak to that.
Good luck with the big block

[smokedchevy]

Whatever you buy make sure it is autometer. If your car is a race car go with the mechanical. They are way more accurate. However, you don't want to run a mechanical fuel pressure gauge inside of your car unless you want to become a crispy critter. Not to mention you'll be thrown out of every dragstrip in America. The electric fuel pressure gauge is a little pricey but it's nice. I have one in my 92 stang. Bottom line, street car electric, race car mechanical.

[Red514LX]

Thanks for all of the replies. I will definitely stick with an electric FP gauge.



------------------
Jeff Kane
1990 LX Mustang ex-5.0 Coupe
No engine. No transmission.
Prepping car for a "big" big-block.
http://hometown.aol.com/red514lx/