I'm looking for suggestions or help in modifying the face of my stock 3rd gen temperature gauge.

I'm one of those that likes to keep my dash uncluttered and mostly stock looking. However, I also appreciate the need for real information from the gauges and in particular the stock temperature gauge. So about a year ago I did the temperature gauge mod.

I'm very pleased with this mod in particular because I also adjusted the circuit and calibration so that I know the actual temperatures at each mark on the stock gauge face; can send details to anyone interested.

Does anyone have suggestions or experience in adding white marks and numbers to the face on a stock gauge? The attached picture shows the stock dash and has a small inserted image of a gauge with added markings. This was easy on the computer. How do you do it on the real thing?

I've thought of the stick-on numbers but don't think they're durable enough to stay in place during hot summer (100+ F) days. I guess that leaves paint, or ???

 

wow...how come your tachometer does not have the small divisions?

 

Because he has a '94+, thats how the tachs are on the later models. I think the numbers thing is a great idea, if it can be done properly. Right now I have an aftermarket gauge, but I feel kind of stupid needing two, but I like having numbers instead of "ranges".

 

I just did the temp gauge mod (not the numbers one) and now I'm wondering what the temp is for the bottom two white lines. Of course the bottom one is cold...what is the temp at the second bottom line? Is that when my car is warmed up?

 

Based on actual measurements of the thermal sensor in my 95 3rd gen, the temperature markings on the OEM gauge face after my modified gauge mod are:

Mark Degrees F
Hot 251
High Normal 229
Center (no mark yet) 190
Low Normal 152
Cold 136

The attached Excel 2000 spreadsheet shows my procedure and results, along with my final modified curcuit design. Read the comments in those cells that have the small red mark in their upper right corner.

 

How long did the temp gauge mod take?

 

Including ripping out the dash and reinstalling everything and making the enclosure for the POT.

About 2 hours, really easy I might add

 

I do believe we're discussing the "linearization" method mentioned previously in this forum. I linearized mine and it works beautifully. I'm happy to see quite a bit of movement from the temp gauge now. Finally, when the fans come on, I can watch the engine getting cooler.

 

You might try going to a place that sells and makes stickers. They might have a good idea on what direction to point you in.

 

for minimal mod...

just add parallel resistor to the temperature sensor. I used a temporary pot and tuned R to get a nudge at gauge at 225F or so, when fans kick on. normally would nudge at 240F or so. 'Normal' will also happen at cooler temp, so I allow a few more minutes to really be normal.

works well for me as safe limit for coolant temps at track.

 

looks good..hope it works out for you