I just installed my new gauges. I bought the Auto Meter 2 gauge A-pillar mount, and Dipricol boost and pyro gauges from Diesel Performance Parts. First, I'd like to say that Mark is a GREAT guy to work with, and the service is excellant. Second, I'm surprised at how fast the pyro reacts. Mark says that is partly due to an upgraded thermocouple they specify with their gauges. Whatever the reason, it is FAST! Also, I saw about 25 lbs of boost on one run. I'm not sure if that is above or below normal, anyone step in and comment if you like please. The install went well. The tapping of both the exhaust manifild and the outer intake manifold went without a hitch, and was quicker and much less of a hassle than I expected. I did purchase a good quality cobalt drill bit, and a good 3/8 NPT tap from NAPA to do the job, which probably helped. None of the "other" auto part stores had those two items, BTW. I should have gone to NAPA first I guess. The wiring of the back lights for the gauges was a snap, I used the purple wire w/white stripe from the headlight switch, which allows the gauges to dim with the factory gauges. The paint (bought from DPPI also) matches well with the other interior parts, and dries fairly quickly. This is not a hard install, just allow enough time to get it done without being rushed.
The weather finally dried out and turned warm here in Southern Idaho, so other than a 4 mile test run, I haven't driven the truck since the install (been saving fuel $$, riding the scooter to work). BUT, this holiday weekend we will be travelling to the Soldiers for a little dirty bike ride so I should have more to report later. The bike trailer isn't much of a load, but it does push some wind.
Everybody have a safe and fun holiday weekend!

Nice write up. I am interested in installing guages also. I too will contace DPPI. Sounds like a good source to get everything needed.

How did you drill and tap the exhaust manifold? Some recomend doing it while the engine is running to blow any shavings out any not send them to the turbo. Is this correct?

Also, I plan to keep my engine stock. What use would I have for a boost guage?


Thanks,


Mark

sledman,

Hey great you go them installed!!! Enjoy them and thnsk for the kudos!

Mark @ DPPI

Romark1,

You can run the engine but it's really not necessary. Drill it tap it, thread it in. Start the truck and let it idle for 10-15 seconds and it'll be OK. Done zillions this way and never had a problem yet!

Mark @ DPPI

Nice write up. I am interested in installing guages also. I too will contace DPPI. Sounds like a good source to get everything needed.

How did you drill and tap the exhaust manifold? Some recomend doing it while the engine is running to blow any shavings out any not send them to the turbo. Is this correct?

Also, I plan to keep my engine stock. What use would I have for a boost guage?


Thanks,


Mark

Yes, I let the engine idle. It wasn't a big deal at all. I installed it according to the hoot method, which I believe is listed in the DYI, or "how to" section of this site. Do a search if you can't fine it, and PM me if you have any questions. And DPPI is a GREAT source. I'm done wasting my time surfing the net looking for parts, they can handle my needs.
Good luck.

Hey Sledman I bought that same setup can't wait to install but I guess I'll have to cause NAPA just sold there last tap. Are you in the bussiness of drilling exhaust manifolds now? still kinda nervous about that. Did you drill your intake for boost or are you using SD manifold?

Sledman, which boost gauge did you go for? I'm torn between the 35# and 60# boost gauge.

I got the 60# boost just in case I ever need it. Problem is it is not as sensitive as the 30# and doesn't show an indication below 5 to 6 or so.

Hey Sledman I bought that same setup can't wait to install but I guess I'll have to cause NAPA just sold there last tap. Are you in the bussiness of drilling exhaust manifolds now? still kinda nervous about that. Did you drill your intake for boost or are you using SD manifold?

Well, I'm not sure what you mean about being "in the business" of drilling manifolds, but if you want some help doing it I would be glad to oblige. As far as boost goes, I drilled the outer intake as per Hoot's instructions. Very simple.
You know we have several NAPA's around here...... no need to buy that stuff though, we can use mine.

Sledman, which boost gauge did you go for? I'm torn between the 35# and 60# boost gauge.

I went with the 35# boost gauge. So far, it's only hit about 27 or 28 lbs of boost on the gauge, during hard excelleration. I don't ever plan to race this truck, I bought the gauge package only because I tow up some long steep grades, during the heat of the day during the summer. I'm curious what I'll see when I tow up Warm Lake Summit, to Johnson Creek here in another month. Too much snow up that way yet on the single track trails for any good riding..........