Gauges how to test?

[velrob]

I was wondering if anyone could point me to anything in regards to how to test if my gauges are working properly?

71 charger superbee

 

[ply64post]

Gage rage

I was wondering if anyone could point me to anything in regards to how to test if my gauges are working properly?

71 charger superbee

velrob

Here is some information that may help!!!

Jeff

http://www.imperialclub.com/Articles/GaugeRepair/

 

[Jcharger]

I assume there is something on this board and apologize for not linking to that if it is here already. Another thread I know of for testing gauges is:

http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,37999.msg418100.html#msg418100

I assume the 71 are same design and 5V DC full scale, so you will need to verify this.

 

[velrob]

Hello looks less difficult than I thought. All I have on my cluster is a 5v regulator which im modifying to a new regulator with newer tech so the 5v is steady and clean

thanks for the replies.

 

[velrob]

I made the new 5v regulator and all my gauges work except alternator. Does that need different type of testing?

The needle is also stuck in the middle not sure thats normal

 

[Paul_G]

The alternator gauge does not use the 5 volt power supply like the rest of the gauges. Battery current, and alternator current passes through the amp gauge. That is what deflects the needle. You can turn on the headlights with the car turned off and see the amp needle move.

 

[velrob]

I guess ill wait until rest of car is done

everything is dismantled at moment.
thank you

 

[Jcharger]

I think the alternator gauge measures amps going between the battery and the alternator/rest of car. This means that current passes through it and I have read that its circuit can be a weak link and possibly a risk for fire. I still have one, but I know others have made a switch to a voltmeter in its place. I do not know the best way to make this switch, but have seen some threads where people have made the swap. I have seen it done with redline gauges and have the gauges look like they belong.

http://www.forbbodiesonly.com/moparforum/showthread.php?105765-Ammeter-decision&highlight=voltmeter
a search of voltmeter or volt will bring up some additional discussion.