Best way to test gauges?

65stanger

big blue fuzzy closet monster

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#1

• Dec 1, 2004

• #1

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

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#2

• Dec 1, 2004

• #2

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

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#3

• Dec 1, 2004

• #3

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

 

65stanger

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#4

• Dec 1, 2004

• #4

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

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#5

• Dec 1, 2004

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65stanger said:

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

Click to expand...

Yup.

 

gtss

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Dec 1, 2004

#6

• Dec 1, 2004

• #6

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

 

J

JB66

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#7

• Dec 1, 2004

• #7

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

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Dec 2, 2004

#8

• Dec 2, 2004

• #8

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

 

WORTH

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Dec 2, 2004

#9

• Dec 2, 2004

• #9

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

big blue fuzzy closet monster

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Dec 2, 2004

#10

• Dec 2, 2004

• #10

WORTH said:

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.

Click to expand...