Installing Tempature Guage
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Junior User
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 71
Likes: 2
Installing Tempature Guage
I am installing a aftermarket mechanical guage kit that has an RTD lead to go in the place of the temp sending unit, but I would like to keep the factory guages working too. Any tips on how to install both??
Elder User
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 620
Likes: 8
From: USA
It will work in a Tee, I've done it. So long as the coolant can get to it.
Also, on my 390 there was a spot on the neck that bolts to the manifold and I put my other sending unit there and left the stock one alone. Looks cleaner this way.
Also, on my 390 there was a spot on the neck that bolts to the manifold and I put my other sending unit there and left the stock one alone. Looks cleaner this way.
Moderator
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 22,436
Likes: 17
From: Louisville,Ky.
You do not get as accurate of a reading using a Tee because the coolant is deadheaded in the Tee and not constantly moving across the bulb of the sending unit.
What engine do you have? Some have more than one place to put a gauge.
What engine do you have? Some have more than one place to put a gauge.
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 6,623
Likes: 342
From: Albuquerque
Check your thermostat housing for an extra plug that isn't being used. It works fine there but doesn't show much untill the thermo opens. I like that because you can compare the two gauges if you have a bad thermo.
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Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 11,945
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From: Spokane, WA
If you feel up to the task of pulling the intake you can drill and tap a second hole for an additional sensor. If you do this make sure you clean ALL of the shavings out of the intake before reinstalling it. I have an aftermarket aluminum intake on my 460 that already has 2 or 3 threaded holes and I have my mechanical sender in one and the electric in the other.
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Moderator
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 22,436
Likes: 17
From: Louisville,Ky.
The 400 doesn't have water passages in the intake. You could make up a fitting to put into the heater core supply hose. This would give you an accurate reading since the 400 only has 1 temp gauge fitting in the front of the engine.
Infidel
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 1,115
Likes: 2
From: Elkhorn WI
whats better...mechanical or electric temp gauge? Im wanting to put in an electric because i hate the idea of kinking that mechanical temp gauge wire...and already have an electric for my trans temp.