I want to add a tach to a 4Bt and that's about all I know about the project. Thinking it's about the same setup as a 6Bt 12 valve. What would I have to do to install a tach on this engine that never had one? Do-able? No computer installed. Thanks for any tips...

JimmieD

 

Okay, next question: what type of tach sender is used on the 6BT? Any links to info on 6BT tach and/or sender? Thanks....

 

I just helped a friend put an AutoMeter tach on a Cummins/Chevy Suburban he built. It attaches to the alternator, and has an adjustment screw on the back.

We hooked it up, went for a drive and I adjusted the tach while we were moving. Pretty simple.

He got it from http://www.dakotaparts.com (they just changed their name and website, so you may need to call to place an order)

 

You could buy a marine version.Get a VDO tach,& a tooth counter for the flywheel,& plug them in.That simple.There is allready a port for it in the bell hsng,@ about 11:00 looking from the rear of the engine.I think it's a 7/8 NC thread hole over the ring gear.You will need to know how manyteeth are on the ring gear also to get the right one.

 

Alternator tach or a tach that includes a magnet that glues to the crank. Just order the same thing you would order for a 6bt. Isspro makes both.

 

Thanks, guys, I really appreciate it! I guess I'm wanting my cake and to eat it too, as I hoped to install a complete & matching 'Vintage' type gauge set, either AutoMeter or S/W, but I may be out of luck on that one. The original dash has 3 3/8' [?] Speedo and Tach cutouts plus 4 more 2 1/16" holes, then I figured on adding matching Boost and Pyro down in the new console. May have to change that plan....but thanks for getting me going in the right direction!!

 

I have an Isspro 3 3/8" alt tach in my truck. You could get a matching 3 3/8" Isspro speedo and mount them in the dash. I have a pic in my photo gallery of the tach.

 

Thanks for the pics, and those gauges look really good. I may have to abandon my plan for deco vintage gauges to match my Town Wagon's 'nostalgic' look. Prices for all 8 [or 9] gauges needed are a little breathtaking.

Problem is I have a Mopar type Amp gauge and want volts instead, plus I wanted the boost and Pyro to match the other classic gauges. Also not sure using the GM fuel tank/sender if the Mopar fuel gauge will work. I guess a little more homework and a lot more cash flow is what I need. It's looking like about $500 just for gauges right now! Ouch....

JimmieD

 

Unless it's super light, I'd be leery of gluing a magnet on my balancer. In effect, you're adding an external weight and upsetting the factory balance job on the crankshaft. It might not matter with a small magnet at diesel rpm, but it's something to consider.

 

I appreciate your concern, V8440, but you're talking to a guy who ran a 360 with a 318 flywheel for several years. It was something like those beds they used to have in motel rooms where you stuck in quarters for the stimulating massage

When I did that swap I hdidn't know that one engine is internally balanced and one is externally balanced. At least you never fell asleep driving....

But seriously, thanks for the caution!

JimmieD