Rpeck

Is there a good Electronic Boost Controller out there that shows boost levels as you go? I mean if I mount my EBC is a viewing friendly location will it serve as a boost gauge? I am considering my boost control options, I was thinking about a cheaper manual boost controler.. but I hear you should make alot of adjustments to them according to outside temp Etc. So I was thinking I need a after market boost gauge anyways (and they are not cheap) If I put my manual boost contoler cash towards a EBC, and it will serve as my boost gauge also. I will almost break even on the cost of a EBC. Is this at all possible? I have never even seen a EBC in action so I am kinda ignorant about them.

Thx

vosko

iTrader: (4)

it depends on the model. if the EBC has a screen they usually display boost. they are pretty expensive though $400+

Rpeck

Any particular good quality models in that price range that you know displays boost? Does the Apexi AVC-R model have that feature? .. I have been eyeing that one.

I am thinking $199 for a Blitz boost guage, almost $100 for a manual boost controler. I might as well get a EBC for another $150 if it will do it all, and prolly looks cooler Not to mention much more functional as a boost controler.

NZConvertible

Most EBC's will display boost, but I wouldn't recommend it as your only means of reading boost. A rapidly moving digital display is nowhere near as easy to read at a glance than an analogue one, and it's near impossible to judge the rate of chage of boost.
The costs don't add up like you want anyway. A manual boost controller and a boost gauge is still a lot cheaper than an EBC. Get a decent boost gauge first, then whichever controller you can afford. You can always make a manual controller for ~US$20 until you can save for the EBC.

Rpeck

I have never owned a turbo car. This is my first one, and I have never drove it cause it had a blown apex when I got it. It is almost complete & ready to drive. But what i am wondering it; Once my car is dialed in and Dyno'ed how often do I need to look at the bost guage? I mean if everthing is working properly is it still that important to watch the boost gauge?

Edit: one more thing, is the stock boost gauge that worthless? If so I was thinking I might change my Dash display to a N/A one so I at least get a volt meter in the place of the worthless boost gauge. Is that possible?

thx again

NZConvertible

Absolutely! Think about it this way. Your cooling system has been designed to keep your engine at the correct temp under any condidtions. So do you really need a water temp gauge? Course you do, it's there so you can spot problems if they arise. Boost that's too low indicates something's wrong. Boost that's too high also indicates something is wrong, but it could also cost you your engine! Just about every time I use WOT above ~4000rpm I'll glance quickly at the boost gauge, just in case... The stock boost gauge is too small and has a scale that's basically meaningless. It's only there for a sporty look. Get a decent aftermarket gauge before you do any engine mods.
I believe the NA gauge cluster can be swapped straight in.