Hey Gang,

Quarantine has been good for my Rover. I'm knocking lots of things off of the to-do list, including adding a REAL water temperature gauge to it this weekend. First things first, here's the parts list:

1) Auto Meter 3654 2-1/16" 100- 260 Degree F Full Sweep Electric Water Temperature Gauge2) Auto Meter 2205 Black 2.025 Diameter Omni-Pod3) Dewhel Aluminum Black Water Temp Meter Temperature Gauge Joint Pipe Radiator Sensor Adaptor Clamps 32mmAnd here is what it looks like post-installation:








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Now for the test observations. To test, I plugged in my Ultra-Gauge and secured it under the new analog gauge and started driving. Up to 180 degrees (I have the 180 degree thermostat) they both read identical values. Once past 180, the new Auto Meter gauge stayed 10 degrees higher than the ultra-gauge. I'm assuming this might have to do with the placement of the sensors. The ultra-gauge is using the factory sensor, which I think is located in the block, and my new gauge has a sensor in the cooling hose above the thermostat.

Even when sitting at lights, I never saw the temp on the Auto Meter gauge exceed 200, so I'm happy. What I like about the Auto Meter gauge is the ability to set a warning temperature (mine is set to 210) which activates a red LED when hit, and the ability to recall peak temperatures.

I hope you enjoyed this write-up.
-Tim

 

This is my next project. Just waiting on the 32mm water temp gauge pipe adapter. I thought a ground wire was needed from the adaptor. My set up will be similar to yours. I'm hoping the double sided adhesive holds well on the dash.

 

Nice job! I'm dig'n the gauge!

 

Finally got my temp gauge done yesterday. I went with a digital gauge so I had to install another ground wire from the pipe adaptor. I get power from the cigarette lighter. Removing the center console was most labor for the entire job. There is a convenient ground for the wire behind the drivers side kick panel and an equally convenient grommet just above the brake pedal for the communication wire between the gauge and the sensor.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Blue-32mm-W...72.m2749.l2649

https://www.ebay.com/itm/HOTSYSTEM-2...72.m2749.l2649

The gauge temp stays about 2 degrees lower on average vs the Blue Driver ODB2 port device with an iPhone.

 

I wonder how good is the measurement, if the coolant flow at this point is very low. When the thermostat is fully open and all the coolant flows through the radiator, is there still enough coolant flow at the temperature sensor? I was thinking about a similar solution, but was skeptical to place the temp sensor there.