Replacing VDO gauges with Autometer gauges

[emissary]

Most used BackDrafts seem to come with the standard VDO gauges set. I really like the look of the Autometer gauges with the reverse speedometer. How difficult is it to switch the gauges out? Is it pretty much plug and play? How does the mileage get handled with the odometer...is that stored outside of the gauges? Thanks in advance!

[sllib]

I spec'd Autometers when I ordered my car and, generally, I like them. The speedo comes with a add-on reverser which I had to modify to keep it from eating up cables. The oil pressure gauge comes with a little plastic tube and a plug kit to match your engine; throw that away and buy a stainless braided cable from Summit. If the tube pops under the dash you will get a painful hot oil bath. Also, both temp gauges were inop right out of the box. Check the sensors in a pan of hot water before you go to all the trouble of installing them and routing the metal tubing. The ammeter didn't work, but that was probably because it was a 0-50 amp and my alternator puts out 105 amps. I replaced it with a voltmeter, and Autometer quickly replaced the other gauges at no charge. It sounds like I had a lot of problems, but mine were nothing compared to the horror stories I've heard here about other brands. Plus, Autometer has great customer service.

[Cashburn]

All those mechanical gauges are now offered in electric. Only way to go.

Install is relatively straightforward, you have to adapt wiring of course and you will need to drop fuel tank and change sender.