How important is the boost gauge? With the limited gauge mounts available for the 3rd gens, my local diesel shop is telling me to go with a single EGT on the A-pillar. The mechanic is telling me that a boost gauge is not needed and really just a toy to watch. So is he right or can someone convince me that monitoring boost is important?

FYI - I plan on some mild mods in the future such as air intake, exhaust, fueling box and possibly injectors. I doubt I will ever change my turbo.

 

I went with the Westach combo gauge so I could have boost and EGT in one package. I really like it. Take a look in my photo gallery.

MikeyB

 

On a stock truck, more than likely they're just fun to watch.

Once you add the box and/or injectors, things will start to get hot enough to start melting pistons.
Boost is what keeps the EGT down.
It will also give warning of turbo problems, like leaks.

I'd get one now so you have a baseline.

You can also drive by the boost guage, and get yourself better mpg.


phox

 

I would agree that the pyro is of primary importance and it should be mounted for easy viewing. A boost gauge is nice to have as a diagnostic tool, and it also tells you how hard you're working the truck. It doesn't have to be mounted up on the pillar to be useful.

 

Boost, Fuel pressure (not sure if this is a big issue on the 3rd gens), and EGT are the most common ones to get. If you have an automatic transmission, then a tranny temp gauge. I'd say EGT, Tranny temp (if your an auto) and Fuel Pressure are the 3 most important ones. If fuel pressure isn't a problem, then replace it with a boost gauge. Boost gauges are fun to watch, but you can also drive by them so you can get better mileage, plus they also hope show leaks and to see if your turbo's working like it should.

 

I agree with wannadiesel. Boost is great for diagnostics but pyro and auto trans temp are much more important.

 

How does watching the boost get you better milage? Less boost=better MPG, or the other way around?

 

Less Fuel=Less Boost=Better MPG

Also, as far as fuel pressure goes. No box yet but I can pull my fuel pressure down to 4lbs ALREADY.

Ready, Set, BomBs Away!!!!!!!!