How do I ground gauges
Cargo Master
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 2,580
Likes: 29
From: in a barn
Assuming a modern 12v system just run a jumper wire to the dash metal. Battery should have a ground wire to the engine block, there should be a ground strap from the engine block to the cab, and another from the engine block to the frame for a good ground loop.
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 8,093
Likes: 652
From: Brentwood, TN
Most gauges have a u-shaped bar that holds them in place...the back of the gauge has 2 studs that pass through the 2 holes in this bar. I have seen ground wires attached to these studs but as drptop has said, pretty much any contact between the gauge and a grounded mounting plate/dash panel should be sufficient.
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 1,257
Likes: 1
From: Scottsdale, AZ
My gauge have a "G" terminal I thought was for the ground wire. I should rephrase my question, where did you guys attach the ground wire to the cab coming from the gauges?
Hotshot
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 15,882
Likes: 88
From: Durham NC
Put a ring terminal on the wire, and attach it to/with any convenient screw or bolt that goes into metal under the dash. I like to use the ring terminals with internal teeth or one or two internal toothed lock washer(s) between the terminal and the body metal to be sure it bites into the body metal when you tighten the fastener.
Cargo Master
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 2,580
Likes: 29
From: in a barn
Do you have the schematic that came with the gauges? I put Dolphins in my 37 Buick and the wiring info was in the instructions. If you dont have them post a pic of the back of the gauges and I can probably find all the info.
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Hotshot
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 15,882
Likes: 88
From: Durham NC
You can run both grounds to the same point or just daisy chain the light ground onto the last or closest instrument ground terminal.
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