temp gauges - need some advice

[Turtle]

I'm looking to add a water temperature gauge to my Nytro. For those of you that have a temp gauge, could you post some pics of them?

I'm looking to get some ideas for what gauge to use and how to mount it. Also, what brand do you recommend? Are some better than others? I was looking at the Autometer brand .... but DAMN! they are a bit spendy!

Thanks in advance.

 

[NY_Nytro]

Here is a pic.

The gauge is a www.iequus.com gauge. $25. It's depth is short and doesn't interferr with the headlight pod.

 

[Mikecam]

Mine are bought from auto supply place in Canada. There are cheap but have worked fine for 900 miles so far.

 

[local 25]

temp

Here are a few pics of my instalation.I did not flush mount my gauge as I wanted it to be the same height as the speedo, also I did not want to cut a 2 inch hole into the dash. It is a Stewart Warner Gauge. In my opinion,a gauge is not something you want to "cheap-out" on .Im sure that these gauges were made for automobiles, and we are subjecting them to an enviroment that is way more harsh than what they were engineered for.

 

[Turtle]

thanks guys - gives me some good ideas

one question though - I'm planning to use an electric gauge vs. a mechanical one ... Can you just tap into the stock temp sensor, or do you have to install the sensor that comes with the gauge? I would like to avoid opening up the coolant system if possible.

 

[Len Todd]

You need to install its own sensor in the exit from the head. Also make sure you get one with a replaceable bulb. My LED one failed in a year. Had to replace whole gage. You have to very selective where you place it. Otherwise, you may end up cutting into the internal hood reinforcement. If I was to do it over again, I would not do it. Once you get past the novelty, it is just another maintenance item.

 

[Srxspec]

We carry and stock a Daytona digital water temp gauge.

http://www.ty4stroke.com/viewtopic.php?t=28664

 

[NY_Nytro]

thanks guys - gives me some good ideas

one question though - I'm planning to use an electric gauge vs. a mechanical one ... Can you just tap into the stock temp sensor, or do you have to install the sensor that comes with the gauge? I would like to avoid opening up the coolant system if possible.

I doubt you will be able to use the stock sensor.

I honestly find the gauge useful rather than just showpiece. I initially had a few overheats on my Warrior and putting a gauge on it let me keep a closer eye on it. I knew what the normal temps was for various types of conditions and that allowed me to be proactive if the gauge started to creep up beyond the norm.

Cutting that small portion of that underlying portion of the hood will do no harm, it will still be plenty strong. Unless a couple of your buddies typically park their butts on your hood at trail breaks.

 

[Turtle]

Well, I got my temp gauge mounted last night. I picked up an electric one at a local auto-parts store.

Now, one more question .... Where's the best place to put the sensor? What I mean is ... Which coolant line is the best to splice the sensor into?

 

[Len Todd]

I installed it just before the thermostat, in the 1" line from the head. I made a Tee by using a 1" metal underground sprinkling pipe coupling and welded a 1/8" 1/2 coupling to it. I cut about 3/4" off each end of the 1" coupling to shorten it up a bit. Cut 3/4" of the black hose out. Then I used two hose clamps. Painted the thing black and stuck it in. Works like a champ.

You have to watch out when you get a fitting like this. A Tee for one of the digital gages will not accept a sensor from an Electric or Mechanical Gage. The sensor is too long.

 

[Philscbx]

Re: temp

Here are a few pics of my instalation.I did not flush mount my gauge as I wanted it to be the same height as the speedo, also I did not want to cut a 2 inch hole into the dash. It is a Stewart Warner Gauge. In my opinion,a gauge is not something you want to "cheap-out" on.

That's a nice clean look - Good Job...

 

[Mighty]

Install the sender in a T under the Thermostat housing. That hose comes directly from the engine and will give you the most accurate reading.

 

[03griz]

Now that I have a guage I will put one in every sled I own. I like to know when it is warm before I start riding it like it was someone else's. Other guys with RX's are always asking how long before it is warm. It is not warmed up when the light goes out. No were near.