OIL Temp. gauge?

[Ryan A Harris]

I've just purchased a oil temp gauge and a volt meter. I'm not to sure how or where the oil temp is going to go in the oil system. I'm not to keen on opening the box, then deciding that I'm not going use it. The gauge range is from 140-280F*. Is it not 170-180 for optimum range? Bill do you still have the oil pressure conversion part, are you going to use it? If not I'd be interested in it.

I'm looking to do this in my driveway, so mybe I couldget some help from a few guys who are good with electrical, wiring. I'm hoping to do my intercooler fan, low speed fan and the two gauges all at once. Probable in two weeks. Les fuel pump might be good to do then also, I couild get Scott to help out with that one I think.

Any input on this would be awsome guys.

[fast Ed]

Ryan, most oil temp. gauges need a 1" NPT threaded hole in the oil pan for the sender. That might be tough to do on the cast aluminum SC pan ... sorry, don't have any suggestions on that.



cheers
Ed N.

[SeanMatteson]

I think another option might be to install a remote oil filter kit, which would allow you to plumb the sensor into one of the lines. If you included a separate oil cooler kit, then you might be able to bypass that clumsy stock oil cooler set-up. I agree with Ed in regards to trying to mount the sensor in the oil pan, unless you could make use of the stock bung for the VMS oil level feed.

Best regards,

Sean

[Ryan A Harris]

The gauge comes with a threaded brass plug/sensor. I was thinking of not measuring the temp. of oil in the pan, but oil in the system. Hopfully on its way out of the engine. Possible going into the oil cooler, by the oil filter. what ya think of that.

[SeanMatteson]

You'd need some kind of a housing in which you could mount the sensor, with fittings entering and exiting it for oil flow. I think that would work, unless the flow of oil over the surface of the sensor would cause an inaccurate reading, but I doubt that would be the case.

Regards,

Sean

[Ryan A Harris]

The thing is, with the gauge, I don't want to open it, yet. I want to be SURE that I' going to able to put in! So with the gauge in the package in the box, It's hard to detrmine what is i the box for installation. I'm sure that I(we) can get the gauge in, but need more options first.


I've emailed Autometer, possible they will have a suggestion, we have yet to think of.

[lazybird4pt6]

Ryan, a suggestion from my past experience - OPEN THE BOX!!!
You'll need to know how long your wires are before you can decide WHERE you want to put the sending unit. If the wires are too short to mount to the front of the engine then you're going to have no choice but to fabricate something.
Also, are these ELECTRIC or MECHANICAL gauges??
This will also determine ease of installation. Electrical gauges are easy to splice an extra length of line for "just such emergencies". Mechanical units however..........we won't go there.
Personally, Sean's idea of a remote oil filter kit is my fave. You just get the kit for TWO filters and use the extra line for the sending unit - i've seen it done before, works good. The kit will cost about $100 however (i'm getting a single for my 'Bird for $92).
If you want a hand let me know. If I can make it out when you want to do this then i'm in.
Gauges are fun!!!!

BTW - check my signature, thanks for the inspiration (I think).