A-PILLAR GAUGE INSTALL

1       This is a matter of choice but the first thing I did was order a new A-Pillar Molding from Dal  (part#10243127)  in case I screwed up the install of the gauge  pod since it requires cutting holes in the A-Pillar Molding. Also you may want to keep all the original parts so you can return the car to the factory condition at later date.

2       Next select the gauges you are going to install in the A-Pillar. I used the Sport Comp Oil Temp Gauge  #ATM-3348 & Sport Comp Trans Temp Gauge #ATM-3357 from Auto-Meter. You also need the Auto Meter gauge pod part # 10233 to install the gauges in.

3       After you have gathered all the parts you need for the install you have to remove the stock A-Pillar molding and install the new molding. Once you have accomplished this take the new gauge pod and locate it on the A-Pillar where it is most comfortable for you. Mark this location with a pencil so you can erase the marks later on.

4       Remove the A-pillar molding and drill the locator holes for the gauge pod. Once the holes are drilled you can mark where you will have to cut the a-pillar molding so the gauges will clear and also so you can run your wiring.

5       Now that you have located the gauge pod and cut the access/clearance holes you can connect the wires to the gauges and install them in the pod. With the gauges installed in the pod feed the wires thru the holes you cut in the a-pillar molding and attach the pod to the molding using the 4 connectors supplied with the gauge pod then feed the wiring down the A-Pillar and re-install the A-pillar molding.

6       With  the gauges and molding re-installed it’s time to make your connections. Find an available spot in the fuse block at the driver side dash panel, one that gives you power only when the key is in the on position. Once you have located the connection disconnect the battery and connect the wire for the gauge light.

7       Next you have to locate the place where you are going to install the sending units for each gauge. In my case it was the trans temp and the oil temp so I installed the trans temp sensor in the trans casing above the shift linkage and the oil temp sensor in the Auto Meter Manifold #2286 which I installed in line with the trans cooler.

8       Once you have the sensors installed you have to run the wires to the appropriate gauges. Be careful to keep the wire away from heat & moving parts. Feed the wires thru the firewall where the stock wire harness is located to avoid having to drill holes in your firewall. Connect  the wires  to the wires you previously ran down the A-Pillar and out by the fuse box. You should use wire connectors or solder the connections so there is a solid connection and cover the bare wires with heat shrink tubing or  electrical tape. I prefer the heat shrink tubing.

9       Re-connect the battery and check for lights in the gauges. If all appears to be working and the fuses don’t blow start the car and let it warm up so you can check the readings on the gauges and also check for leaks where you connected the sensors.

10  With everything working properly grab yourself a cold refreshment and go show your buddies how talented you are.