Best way to test gauges?

[65stanger]

I bought a '65 GT instrument panel on eBay last year, and I've got it apart to clean it up before I install it in my 'stang. I was wondering if there is any way I can bench test the gauges to be sure they are working before I reassemble the panel.
Thanx!

 

[foghorn67]

okay, might be a tough one. Or a simple one.
I know with 12v gauges, you can just ground out the sending wire-assuming your power and ground is hooked up-and the needle should peg to the max.
However, I believe the stock gauges are regulated by their own inst. cluster regulator. that might complicate things.
anybody care to add?

 

[6Stang7]

Resistance. What the readings are I am not sure but I would assume a Ford shop manual would list them.

 

[65stanger]

Well since the instrument cluster is lying on my workbench in pieces, I guess this means I go to 6stang7's suggestion and check the resistance. Not being too electronically inclined, I'm assuming you mean with a multimeter?

 

[6Stang7]

Not being too electronically inclined, I'm assuming you mean with a multimeter?

Yup.

 

[gtss]

the best way would actually be with a variable resistor, (guage tester) so you can simulate the low and high readings of each guage, specs you would have to check with the shop manual but as an example a fuel sender may be 15 ohms for empty and 70 ohms for full. and obviously readings in between would vary the sweep of the needle
Gord

 

[JB66]

The CVR puts out a constant 5v, not 12v. Use a variable resistance to test or an ohm meter. I could not find any resistance values for the gauges. Sorry.

 

[65stanger]

Thanks!
Now I just have to remember where I put my multimeter!

 

[WORTH]

just run a jumper from the small regulator to one side of the guage, put powr to the other side of the regulator and temporarily ground the other side of the guage.

 

[65stanger]

just run a jumper from the small regulator to one side of the guage, put powr to the other side of the regulator and temporarily ground the other side of the guage.