I can feel it coming already but I have already searched and know you guys can provide a quick answer...

I have a 2004 6.0 and want to get an a-pillar gauge setup and would like to know which gauges from Motor Haven I should get and do I need the thermocoupler wire and bushing to be welded to the downpipe? IF so, what length wire is necessary?

Should I get pre and post gauges? I assume post is the important one.

The a-pillar post says up to 2003... will it fit an '04?

Is the 30psi gauge the correct boost gauge to get?

Anyone have the turbo lifesaver? Is it good/worth it?

Here is what I am thinking of getting:

1994 - 2004 Ford Powerstroke Diesel Turbo Lifesaver #16346
http://www.motorhaven.com/customer/p...cat=279&page=1

Grey triple gauge pillar mount. Color matched for 1999-2003 Super Duty #2194
http://www.motorhaven.com/customer/p...cat=192&page=1

ISSPRO Enhanced Visability 0-30 psi Boost Gauge, 2 1/16" face, Mechanical #2175
http://www.motorhaven.com/customer/p...cat=191&page=1

ISSPRO Enhanced Visability Transmission Oil Temp Gauge, 140-320F, 2 1/16" face, electric #2178
http://www.motorhaven.com/customer/p...cat=191&page=1

ISSPRO Enhanced Visability Pyrometer, 2 1/16" face, 100-1500F degrees, post-turbo #2174
http://www.motorhaven.com/customer/p...cat=191&page=1

 

Or you could go with the X-Monitor and CES. It has pyro, tranny, and boost all in one compact package that lets you keep your A-Pillar handle. The CES module keeps the motor running until the desired shut-off temp is reached - or the time out value expires.

See my gallery for a photo.

 

It is the same A pillar as the '03. I would get a higher boost gauge because I boost over 30 sometimes. Pre turbo requires tapping the exhaust manifold, post requires you to weld a bung in the downpipe for the pyro. My pyro's came with the wires already cut to proper length. I don't have the turbo lifesaver. IMO just wait 30 seconds before shutting it off and don't hammer down right before you shut it off and you should be fine.

 

on the pyro, go preturbo. Temps are more of a problem for the pistons than the turbo. Tap the thermocouple into the exhaust manifold on the driver side to the rear. It is very accessible.

 

looks like you can get the x-monitor for ~$400... is it pre or post turbo, site did not say?

what is the consensus on the x-monitor?

 

I have the x-monitor and really like it. It is nice and compact, and I got to keep my grab handle. I installed the pyro pre-turbo, in the driver side exhaust manifold as mentioned before. I was worried about drilling and tapping, since I had never done it before, but it went quite smooth with no problems. Installed it with the manifold in place. The wiring was the toughest part for me, but was still pretty simple. I have pics of the install in my gallery. Darylhunter helped talk me through the installation, took me an afternoon plus time for paint to dry.

 

You can install the X-Monitor pyro probe either preturbo as both deadfish88 and I have done, or you can install the probe after the turbo.

I believe that this is pretty much true with any pyro probe as the thermocouple is just measuring temperature and doesn't care where it is placed.

Going preturbo gives you the most accurate indication of what kind of temps are being produced on the output of the motor.

There is has been a concern by some about potential probe breakage and subsequent damage to the turbo but once you look at the probe you'll see that it is pretty stout. There haven't been any substantiated reports of probe breakage, so I guess it just depends upon how risk adverse you are. I believe that the majority of folks here have gone preturbo.

If you do go post turbo, put the probe as close to the output of the turbo as you can.

The X-Monitor comes with enough cable on the pyro probe to reach either mounting location.

 

Kemerick,

You can see what the ISS gauges would look like in my gallery.

Any setup you choose, will work fine either gauges or X-Monitor , but I agree with the others that you should go Pre-turbo not post....

 

Glad I found this thread I had the same question. I know I want my guage pre-turbo.

Won't the shavings from drilling and tapping the manifold hurt the turbo?

Also I am going to use a mechanical boost guage where is the best spot to plumb this in at?

 

Since you are driling cast iron from the bottom side, most of the shavings will be on the floor/ground and all over your face. Drill and tap the hole dry and when you are done, use a shop vac to suck out what little dirt may be in the hole.

You can see gauge installation instructions and pictures at:
http://www.dieselmanor.com/diy/PSD3-...D3gauge-p1.htm and at
http://i.b5z.net/i/u/1632828/i/gauge_instructions.pdf

You shouldn't have any trouble...

 

It is not that hard to take the exhaust manifold off if you are worried. It adds about 1/2 hour to the job.

 

I'm looking at adding gauges, too. I was thinking of Boost, EGT and oil pressure. Where is the best place to tap into an oil pressue port in the block? I would like to keep the stock gauge functioning.

 

If you have an auto you should use a tranny temp gauge instead of oil pressure.

 

I would agree with jasfaa....the stock tranny temp gauge is worthless...

 

I want to keep my grab handle so I like this option, does anyone have any "action" photos of it's display?