FYI FORD MustangSteve's Ford Mustang Forum / Which autometer gauges do I buy?

**Posted by RTM** 6/12/2024 8:12 AM

I purchase a carbon fiber instrument panel that I want to install the Ford autometer gauges in. The fuel gauge should be 73-10 ohms or that’s what I’ve read. Theres a fuel gauge for that range and they sell one that appears to be fully adjustable to get the most accurate readings? They offer two different speedometers, one says electric and appears you need to purchase additional hardware to install it but I’m not sure. The other speedometer appears to be a GPS setup. I’m guessing this GPS would be the best way to go? They also have two different tachometer options. One just looks like it’s compatible with more engine options, again not real sure. Volt gauge is 8-18V, I’m sure this ok.

Just looking for some guidance before I order them. It’s just real clear to me when reading their descriptions.

image hosting

**Posted by RTM** 6/12/2024 8:19 AM

https://www.autometer.com/gauges/ford-racing.html

**Posted by RTM** 6/12/2024 8:54 AM

Speedo
880824

Tach
880084

Fuel
880400

Oil
880821

Volt
880823

Temp
880822

These are what I think will work.

**Posted by Nos681** 6/12/2024 9:12 AM

Electric speedometer would be my choice over a GPS.

In my area, GPS has issues even for satellite radio.

Ford factory style VSS is simple and reliable.

Speedometer may have settings for various VSS’s.

I’m sure GPS are just as good and probably have more options too.

Last edited by Nos681 (6/12/2024 9:14 AM)

**Posted by RTM** 6/12/2024 9:19 AM

Nos681 wrote:
Electric speedometer would be my choice over a GPS.

In my area, GPS has issues even for satellite radio.

Ford factory style VSS is simple and reliable.

Speedometer may have settings for various VSS’s.

I’m sure GPS are just as good and probably have more options too.

I’ve had issues with my bicycle gps computer before which I hadn’t thought about. The electric is cheaper but I have to purchase additional parts for it to work so pricing may be about the same between the two.

Glad it’s a slow day at work. Gives me time to look for car parts. Lol

**Posted by RTM** 6/12/2024 9:52 AM

I have a progression distributor and they said either tach option will work with their distributor.

**Posted by Quicksilver** 6/12/2024 10:57 AM

Have you looked at Speed Hut gauges they offer a Ford type version also.

**Posted by RTM** 6/12/2024 11:36 AM

Quicksilver wrote:
Have you looked at Speed Hut gauges they offer a Ford type version also.

No I haven’t but I am now.

Don’t see anything I like on their site.

Last edited by RTM (6/12/2024 11:39 AM)

**Posted by RTM** 6/12/2024 11:41 AM

Any other options for VSS signal? I’ll have to make sure I have the clearance for the one Autometer sells.

**Posted by Rudi** 6/12/2024 12:17 PM

I got the speed sensor for my AOD from a Crown Vic at a wrecking yard , $5. bucks iirc.
All my gauges are Autometer Ultralights, speedo and tach are 5 inch obviously too big for the 65-66 panel but perfect for the 68, the rest of my gauges are 2 1/16”.

**Posted by Nos681** 6/12/2024 1:24 PM

I am using a ‘92 style VSS that has a cable output and signal for ECM (factory cruise control).

1995 Mustang had VSS output only.

**Posted by RTM** 6/12/2024 3:19 PM

Nos681 wrote:
I am using a ‘92 style VSS that has a cable output and signal for ECM (factory cruise control).

1995 Mustang had VSS output only.

Can you run this without the mechanical cable installed? Can I buy the electric plug online? Getting to a yard to pull stuff is difficult for me.

**Posted by Nos681** 6/12/2024 7:14 PM

The ‘92 has a mechanical and electrical connection.

The ‘95 is only electrical…notice the plug on back where cable would connect.

Both VSS use the same electrical connector.

Ford used this VSS on a lot of different models…million at least is my guess.

So parts are available new and used…if you can still find a junkyard.
I also like the sealed electrical connection.

Last edited by Nos681 (6/12/2024 7:20 PM)

**Posted by RTM** 6/13/2024 3:02 AM

I think the ford VSS is a better option not only is it cheaper but should fit better and be easily replaced if it went bad.

**Posted by RTM** 6/14/2024 11:48 AM

Local parts store looks like they sell the sensor with the plug. It would be $7.00 more than if I order it from RockAuto. I may just swing by the parts store and grab it. Not that I need it yet. Just want to see it in person before I buy it.

**Posted by MS** 6/14/2024 3:57 PM

Good find. Those Ford gauges are cool looking. I bought chrome trim rings for my gauges at a Harley Davidson shop.

**Posted by MS** 6/14/2024 3:59 PM

Summit Racing sells a gizmo for dialing in a fuel gauge. You set it for empty, 1/2 full and full

**Posted by RTM** 6/14/2024 4:40 PM

MS wrote:
Summit Racing sells a gizmo for dialing in a fuel gauge. You set it for empty, 1/2 full and full

I figured I would have less complications by buying something that is an all in one package. I’m not the smartest person when it comes to electronics so piecing something together would most likely not work out so well for me. Just look at this post. I was unsure what gauges to buy. lol

**Posted by Nos681** 6/14/2024 5:09 PM

What is your fuel tank ohmic range?

Might take a look at Fuel gauge 880820

**Posted by RTM** 6/15/2024 5:30 AM

Nos681 wrote:
What is your fuel tank ohmic range?

Might take a look at Fuel gauge 880820

I had that one selected until I read that others have had issues with the aftermarket sending units being off. Others said to buy an NOS sending unit and others bought the as MS said a gizmo to correct their readings. My thought is just to pay the extra now and not have the headache of trying to make it work or adding a gizmo.

**Posted by Nos681** 6/15/2024 12:14 PM

Are both gauges “short sweep” gauge face?

Last edited by Nos681 (6/15/2024 12:15 PM)

**Posted by Rufus68** 6/15/2024 12:46 PM

Just curious, what is the total cost you're looking at? I'm just asking because I went with the Dakota Digital VHS gauge cluster for my '68. These were an easy install and have worked fine. I'm just curious how much extra this route cost. Of course, I'm happy with mine because they just work (lights, calibrations, etc).

**Posted by RTM** 6/15/2024 3:23 PM

Nos681 wrote:
Are both gauges “short sweep” gauge face?

Yes they both sweep.

The total cost is $1200. I just feel in love with the look of these gauges.