North American Turbocoupe Organization

Full Version: VDO Boost Gauge Installed
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Earlier today I received my gauge from Summit Racing. I finished installing it (with no kit...) and ran out to I-95 to check the response. I should add that after I installed the boost control, and before the stock gauge quit, it was reading just past 15psi but sputtering and missing when I really got into it. I thought it was a fuel or ignition problem, but here's what I found. On I-95 I found a nice clear stretch before the MD House rest-stop, and gave it about 3/4 throttle in 4th. The gauge started up slowly, then shot up to about 27psi!!! That could explain some things huh? I honestly thought that the overboost buzzer would be yelling in my ear if it was running that high, but nope... Good thing I got the new gauge. Another testamonial to the innacuracy of the stock gauge I guess.
Glad I didn't kill the engine...
If your running a Gillis valve, you might want to check your valve installation. A stock Gillis will only support around 22-23 psi with the original spring. Ric now has springs to support higher boost pressures.

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NATO Member. it's not a vice, it's an obsession
"The nice thing about each new day is nobody ever used it before" Barnaby Jones
88 TC X 2, 86 SVO, mods list at
http://www.turbotbird.com/showroom/pd_88tc.htm
Also check the waste gate / waste gate activator for proper operation..... WG could be stuck shut, or WGA could have a blown diaphram. With that high a boost level, I am betting the WG isnt opening at all.

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Jeff Korn

88 Turbo Coupe: Intake and exhaust mods, T3 turbo at 20 psi, forced air intercooler, water injection, bypass valve, Ranger roller cam, subframes, etc., etc.. // 86 Tbird 5.0 (original owner): intake, exhaust, valvetrain mods, 100 HP nitrous, ignition, gears, suspension, etc., etc.... // 91 Escort: Bone stock winter car // 00 Windstar (wifes vehicle)
Could I connect an air compressor to the tube that runs to the WGA, and check it manually that way?
You don't want to put too much pressure on it. At about 10 psi you should see the rod from the WGA to the waste gate just barely move, like maybe 1/16" Also remove the C clip that holds the rod to the WG pivot arm, remove the rod and then see if the arm turns through at least 45* freely.

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NATO Member. it's not a vice, it's an obsession
"The nice thing about each new day is nobody ever used it before" Barnaby Jones
88 TC X 2, 86 SVO, mods list at
http://www.turbotbird.com/showroom/pd_88tc.htm