Boost Gauge or No Boost Gauge

[KillJoy]

As some of you know... I recently installed a Vortech SuperCharger (very fun, by the way :D ) I have now come to a delima.

I am trying to decide if I should install a Boost Gauge. Is it really necessary? What will it actually tell me (other than the obvious)? It's not like I can stare at it all the time, so....would it just be eye candy?

Everyone's thoughts and opinions on this topic ;) are whole-heartedly appreciated :help:

KillJoy

[Loco1234]

I have the boost gauge in the location where my ciggerette lighter was located on my stock MM. Now there are three guages across there.
It looks good and is functional. Yes it tells you the obvious but I have also had to look at the gauge many times as a dianogistic. Just to double check Im getting full boost. This is handy after a belt snaps or gets replaced.

[Haggis]

...Get gauge!

[SergntMac]

Boost/Vacuum gauges do have some value in daily driving and troubleshooting. But, when into your boost, you won't be watching any gauge. More important things to stare at...Like what's up ahead and how fast it's getting closer, eh?

Got a ScanGauge? Set it to MAP..."Manifold Absolute Pressure". It's your boost in PSI. Factory sensor tops out at 18 PSI, but it works.

[RF Overlord]

I agree w/Loco. Although the vacuum/boost gauge is bling for day-to-day ordinary driving, it can also be useful as a troubleshooting tool. I believe that more information is better than less. They're not big bux ($55 from Jeg's) and they're not difficult to install.

*EDIT* Dammit, Mac and Haggis are always beating me to it...I've got to get faster fingers...

[RoyLPita]

Get the guage. End of story.

[KillJoy]

Okay..... I guess I'll put the sucker in :D

I already have one (-30 to 20). I was jsut trying to decide on if was worth it or not. I had one in a Turbo AWD Talon I once owned, mounted on the Pillar. I just don't remember doing anything w/ it, other than the "cool" factor.

Now to decide where to put it.....

KillJoy

[RR|Suki]

Boost/Vacuum gauges do have some value in daily driving and troubleshooting. But, when into your boost, you won't be watching any gauge. More important things to stare at...Like what's up ahead and how fast it's getting closer, eh?

Got a ScanGauge? Set it to MAP..."Manifold Absolute Pressure". It's your boost in PSI. Factory sensor tops out at 18 PSI, but it works.

I have a Q about that Mac... mine is always reading boost... even when in Vac... what's up with that. My analog gauge reads vac and boost just fine

[SergntMac]

I have a Q about that Mac... mine is always reading boost... even when in Vac... what's up with that. My analog gauge reads vac and boost just fineScanGuage is really reading "manifold absolute pressure, and just pressure. If the engine is running there is at least 4-6 PSI of pressure inside the manifold at idle, whether it was sucked in, or, blown in. Vacuum is another function of that, but if you want to know your manifold pressure at WOT, this is the gadget that can do that.

[jim geary]

If your worried about not being able to read your gauge while in boost mode.
Get one the size of a large alarm clock and mount it either to the right or left
of the steering wheel right up on the top of the dash. May not look cosmetic
pretty but it will be functional.

[jdando]

Interesting question......I have a boost gauge. Mounted in the center console. If I had it to do all over I would do the following;(bear in mind, I like the factory look, not wanting to attract attention)

Three gauges in the center console

oil pressure
tranny temp
oil temp (or some other temp)

Yeah the boost gauge is nice, it moves around alot. But I better not be watching it 5+ psi:eek:

I think the other gauges would provide more useful information to give an indication is something is about to go BLAM.

If you decide to use the A-pillar then you have many more options.

My two cents based upon my driving habits and road course experience.

jeremy

[Haggis]

I've got to get faster fingers...
That's what Mary tells us. :lol:

[thePunisher]

it is also a great tool for monitoring blower belt slip!!!

[Smokie]

We already know the "obvious" function, engine vacuum can be used as a diagnostic tool. I also use it to get the best MPG possible on long highway trips.

If I am cruising at 78 mph and maintain 14 inches of vaccuum I know I will get great gas mileage, the closer it gets to zero the worse my mpg.:D

[stevengerard]

I actually don't have one, and I like it that way, really stealth. though a gauge next to the oil pressure gauge would still be stealth.

[Glenn]

My boost gauge is mounting on top of the steering column with a F-250 manual shift steering column gauge pod. It looks good and is easily read being in the same grouping as the speedmeter and tach.

Glenn

[KillJoy]

My boost gauge is mounting on top of the steering column with a F-250 manual shift steering column gauge pod. It looks good and is easily read being in the same grouping as the speedmeter and tach.

Glenn

Did it fit w/o modification?

KillJoy

[SergntMac]

My boost gauge is mounting on top of the steering column with a F-250 manual shift steering column gauge pod. It looks good and is easily read being in the same grouping as the speedmeter and tach.

GlennGot any pics of this mod Glenn? Inquiring minds want to see...

[KillJoy]

I am currently waist deep in a Mustang Gauge Pod Install.....but modification is / was required.

If one is available w/o Modification.... I will buy it tomorrow.....

KillJoy