Aftermarket Tach

[Preloader]

Don't worry, I will do a full write-up when I get the wiring sorted. Looks like I'm gonna go with the Auto Meter tach adapter module. This could also be used for those interested in just a shift light.

I think a stand alone shift light will be more practical for most. Even if your stock tach is proving inaccurate, you could set the shift light, and just ignore RPMs all together.

Also, option C seems to clearly be the popular choice. I was hoping for at least a couple votes for option A, because I still have an affinity for that location.

But being that it seems most people interested, would put it at C, I feel like I should do sort of "the people's tach" location.

 

[Stew]

This thread is full of innovative win all around. I'm looking forward to learning more about this situation and solutions.

opcorn:

Indeed, there has been several tech tips I wouldn't have considered if not for reading this thread.

And for the record Preloader, your current avatar pic is my favorite so far, can't quite put my finger on why...

 

[Preloader]

I'd like to put my mouth on why.

 

[rdss]

Preload, you and making out with sloths......

 

[wingman]

Although the people's choice is C, you have to live with it daily. I really like A, but for track purposes, I think C keeps your eyes where they need to be. Straight ahead.

 

[Preloader]

Unless I'm wearing my welding hood while racing (which would actually be like a bauss) , I think I could mount it anywhere and still see that shift light.

 

[$ub$onic]

Is there a way to install a shift light to the factory tach?

 

[wingman]

True story. I just wonder if having it out of your direct line of sight would affect your reaction time to the light

 

[Preloader]

Is there a way to install a shift light to the factory tach?

Yes. 2ways.....

1) install the tach adaptor module (AM p/n 9117) and buy a shift light that comes with a control module.

2) get your tuner to turn on an unused " trigger" from the ECU and have it turn on at RPM value of your choice


1 is better because so far I haven't heard enthusiasm for the tuners to do 2, though I know it is possible. Also option 2 will be plagued with the same signal lag that started the whole aftermarket discussion.

 

[Swordsmith]

I am very excited about the light idea. I despise the "shift" signal on the speedo because it seems to want me to shift where I wouldn't ever want to, either for power or for economy, and I can't reprogram it... and now I learn that it may be laggy as well.

I'm not really excited about the second tach, which is probably more information than I can process, when what I really want is an "idiot" light that I can program to tell me when I'm being an... well, to tell me when the ideal shift point is reached, according to my own decision about where the shift point should be.

 

[Preloader]

According to Auto Meter 9117 tach adapter install instructions, it's as simple as finding the 12v supply to the entire coil pack. That wire needs to be cut and the adapter needs to be wired there in series.

Looking at the COP harness, it looks like there is a supply pin and also 4 feedback pins to report timing or misfire to the ECU for each coil.

I'm still having decision hang ups about tach location. I think I need to double stick tape the tach in A and C and drive around a bit with each to facilitate my choice.

 

[RoXXXanne13]

the b location is where I was thinking of trying a 3 pod thing like in the Subaru, it was discussed somewhere on the forum before.. or u could do b locations and pillar gauges.. idk.. I don't need the gauges I just like the look.. however I too hate 2 tachs.. especially with our dash design being so unique it already looks almost like a monster tach compared to other dash board tachs... and I wonder if ur tach lag is just u or if its errbody hmmmmmmm:blankface:

 

[Preloader]

I hate the idea of 2 racha as well. But in the name of accuracy I want to use it for answers. Once my answers are satisfied, I will likely revert to just a shift light.

 

[tbtree55]

Digital Tachometers

i was actually thinking of using one of these.. theres also bigger digital tachs out there, such as,

Del City - Wiring Products and Professional Electrical Supplies

which comes in blue and has a built in shift light.. i think thats more practical than a huge racing tach

 

[wingman]

Depends on your definition of practical.

 

[Preloader]

I'm still in indecision. If I end up leaving it in for daily driving, I like it up to the left like A. C is more practical for qtr mile, but kind of in yo face for daily commuting.

 

[sx sonic]

I'm still in indecision. If I end up leaving it in for daily driving, I like it up to the left like A. C is more practical for qtr mile, but kind of in yo face for daily commuting.

Because the derploader is all about DD practicality.............

 

[rdss]

Because the derploader is all about DD practicality.............

It is daily driven though. Practical, absolutely not but he looks good doing it!

 

[RoXXXanne13]

I'm still in indecision. If I end up leaving it in for daily driving, I like it up to the left like A. C is more practical for qtr mile, but kind of in yo face for daily commuting.

OHHHH idea.. my mom's buick has this heads up display in the winsheild ... it takes a tad getting used to but... digital tach displayed in the winsheild while racing??

 

[Maddmatts]

If the OEM tach uses a stepper motor and if the scale and sweep between the OEM and aftermarket gauges were the same you could probably just usurp the OEM tach's motor with the electronic guts of the aftermarket one.

I know, those are some big if's.