I have never installed these. Want to get tips on good locations to install and how to install them. Also would like to get opinions on the best gauges for my application.
1996 F-250 powersroke 4x4

 

Welcome to the forums. In my opinion, the best place to install your gauges is in A-pillar pods. The boost needs to tee into the map sensor which is located right above the passenger side valve cover on the firewall. It's a little black rectangle piece with a rubber line coming to it from the intake. The Pyrometer needs to be tapped into the drivers side exhaust manifold. And that sounds alot harder than it really is, I PROMIS. If you can use a center punch, run a drill and tap a hole, it's as easy as that. I just jacked the front of my truck up to give myself more room and put it on jack stands. Laying under the driverside looking up at the manifold there is a perfect spot right before it connects to the up pipe. Pick a spot right in the center of the manifold, center punch it. Get your recomended drill size (I can't remember off the top of my head, but you will probably use a 1/8" NPT tap.) and drill it out. Some people use grease to hold the shavings on the drill bit, I didn't. I just drilled normally until I knew I was about to break through. Then slowed the drill speed. Once the hole was opened and clean, I used a reducer on my shop vac to suck out the shavings. (duct tape and a big straw will get it done if you don't have a reducer. Or just hold the hose up to the hole, it will suck it out. Next tap the hole, but remember you don't want to run a NPT tap all the way in because it's tapered. I did use WD-40 on the tap to help cut a little better. After tapping, vaccum again. Install your probe and wire up the rest of the gauge, and that's it. Your good to go. And suprisingly the exhaust manifold was very easy to drill and tap. The metal was alot softer than I thought. It really was easy so, don't go post turbo because you think it might be easier. You will always get a more accurate reading in my opinion at the manifold. As far as what gauges????? I run Autometer Pro Comp Liquid filled boost gauge, and Pro Comp pyrometer, both measuring 2 5/8". Most people run the 2 1/16 gauges because there is more pillar pod options. And there is a TON of great gauges you can use as far as brand. I just personally like Autometer, so the choice is yours. Good luck man, I hope that helped.

 

go to gtsmotorsports.com for the best gauge install instructions. pyro pre turbo. and i like autometer gauges. my .02

 

If your truck has an automatic transmission make sure to get a temp. gauge for that too. I use ISSPRO gauges, good looking and cheaper than the big name stuff.

 

I apprieciate all the help