Just installed Autometer boost gauge...did I do it right?
 

Really, my question is, are those little coupler/sleeve thingies that grasp the supplied plastic hose supposed to crush. The instructions weren't that explicit in telling how much to tighten down everything, so I just tightened everything as much as possible. What that did was crush those tiny brass "football" shaped couplers, closing the hose and ultimately limiting the amount of pressure reaching the gauge. I can't complain though. I mean, I'm getting a 10-5-10 sometimes, but I can only think that I installed it completely correct. Something that is leading me to be speculative is that now since the install, I hear a slight whistling. Could it be a leak?

Thanks,

Anthony

You don't need an insane amount of torque. I think the brass "footballs" are supposed to retain their shape.

Nevermind... I misread your post.... :D

Arnold,

Thanks for your reply, but why then am I able to see 10psi? If what you are saying, and what I'm afraid I fucked up on is true then wouldn't that now crushed hose limit the amount of pressure reaching the gauge? In the end giving incorrect pressure readings?

Ant

Well, no. If there is still an opening in the hose it should still work just fine, unless its leaking like you said it might be. Think about if you had just used a smaller diameter hose. It would still work right? If it works and it doesn't bother you just leave it.

Did you use Teflon tape on the threads like you were supposed to?

Technically I don't think you need any kind of sealing agent when you are threading brass into brass. If anything is leaking on his fitting I would say it's because the round piece inside is now misshapen. When I installed mine I used pipe compound on the threads, but I'm pretty sure it isn't necessary.

hmmm...
 

Hmmm...nope...

The football shaped thing is supposed to retain it's shape, mine got squished too, tightened it to much, you are only supposed to tighten it to resistance point from what I understand, (and TEFLON tape on the threads is a must!). Mine is still useable, but I will end up replacing it sooner or later (need to find another football shaped thingy for it)...

I still get goot accurate boost though (sealed that bugger up good).

Sup dude's,

Just back from a tasty lunch ala sandwich. I did use teflon tape on all threads. And now that I went back and read PraxRX7's reply...DOH! I totally crushed both footballs. Stupid directions didn't specify how much to crank. Damnit all! Is there anywhere that I can get those footballs?

Thanks,

ant

Try a local parts store that carries Autometer stuff. I have seen Autometer products in Checker Auto here. I have no idea if you have Checker in CA, but stop in if you do.

Re: hmmm...
 

Prax,

I crushed mine the first time I installed my gauge, but the local Auto Zone carried replacements. Cost me .25 cents

They are called 1/8" Compression Fitting Sleeves and should be carried at most Auto Stores. And in case you were wondering, Home Depot doesn't have anything that small (<- Just thought I'd save you the trip :D ).

Thanks. Wish I were more patient. I actually already called the techs at Autometer, and one dude was nice enough to send me some free of charge. :D But, regarding that impatient thing I have, I'll be going to my auto parts store right after work. :D

I install a autometer boost gauge also, and to test boost, it's acting kind of strange. I mean, I'm getting good and normal boost pattern, but during a cold start I only get around 10-12hg in vacuum. while cruising, I get a better vacuum reading around 16-18hg. Does this mean I have a vacuum leak somewhere or is it just the cheap gauge????