Tachometer location

[TCEd]

I don't want to buy a new electronic dash or cut holes in the dash for a flush mount. Any suggestions on what to buy and where to mount a tachometer on a 1977 FJ40 ? ed

 

[coonassjohn]

 

[vfrer]

Something like this mounted to the steering column right in front of the dash. Sits perfectly between the gauges and does not obstruct the speedometer. It does block the high beam indicator. I just used a hose clamp to mount.

Amazon product ASIN B00029JXOI

 

[1911]

Something like this mounted to the steering column right in front of the dash. Sits perfectly between the gauges and does not obstruct the speedometer. It does block the high beam indicator. I just used a hose clamp to mount.

Amazon product ASIN B00029JXOI

That's what I did:

my gauge cluster

• 1911
• Jan 8, 2018
• 1

 

[WarDamnEagle]

View attachment 2037364

Is that right hand steer or do you always roll with a copilot?

 

[ColoradoFJ40]

Look up tiny tach. You dont have to drill any holes and I use 3m command strips to attach it to my dash. Super slick and no holes and no hacking into your wire harness.

 

[thebigredrocker]

An option from Awl_teq

40 series A-pillar 3 gauge pod

I wanted to add gauges for my turbo install on my BJ42. Naturally I did not want to drill into my unmolested dash. I mounted them in the common spot of the ashtray opening at first but I wanted a better solution. Many modern vehicles tend mount gauges in the A-pillar using custom formed plastic pods that replace the interior trim. But all I had was the edge of the windshield steel frame. Good thing too, because I don't do plastic!

I made myself an aluminum pod that angled in a bit to aim the gauges at the driver's head and powder coated it black. I have run these gauges for a couple of years now and I think it's the perfect place for them. You must drill two holes into the A-pillar but that is all.

These first three photos show the first run pods. The last two photos show my prototype pod mounted. You will notice they are slightly different. My prototype is simply rectangular where the production units are angled to match the rake of the windshield. The prototype has the gauges pointing slightly downward and the new ones compensate for this.

I have Boost, EGT and RPM gauges from Westach mounted in mine but you can add whatever you like. I ran the wires and boost line up behind the dash pad and through the little opening where the windshield frame bolts are. It's a challenge to do but clean when done. I will include screws, the correct pilot hole drill bit, a template and a bit of wire loom to cover your wires. You must mount the pod low enough to be able to flip your sun visor down.

One last note: The back "door" of the pod is there because without it you can see the wiring and backside of the gauges from standing in front of the vehicle. That looks messy so I added the flap to the part. BUT, and this is important, it is simply a flap without a hinge. So if you close it and open it more than twice it WILL fatigue and break off. When this flap is closed there is a gap to pass wires through.

$30.00 + shipping



View attachment 1401210 View attachment 1401211 View attachment 1401212 View attachment 1401215 View attachment 1401216

 

[RWBeringer4x4]

I have a more poorly executed version of what @1911 pictured courtesy of my PO. HUGE tach mounted below the steering wheel by hose clamps.

I mostly shift based on engine noise so I’ve thought about removing it but it’s helpful for carb tuning and engine diagnostics.

 

[cruiserkev]

Mine is mounted in the same spot as 1911s and has worked great there for the last 20 years.

 

[pigmony]

That's what I did:

my gauge cluster

• 1911
• Jan 8, 2018
• 1

I wish I had that gauge cluster! Having an actual scale on the gauges would be nice.

 

[1911]

I wish I had that gauge cluster! Having an actual scale on the gauges would be nice.

The cluster itself is factory stock, but I replaced the stock oil pressure, temperature, and ammeter gauges with new Autometer gauges. Actually a voltmeter now in the ammeter space.

 

[coonassjohn]

Is that right hand steer or do you always roll with a copilot?

I have a great auto pilot.

 

[sleepycruiser]

That's what I did:

my gauge cluster

• 1911
• Jan 8, 2018
• 1

Do you recall where you got those gauges? I’ve looked at the Auto Meter site but wasn’t sure which ones worked.

 

[1911]

Do you recall where you got those gauges? I’ve looked at the Auto Meter site but wasn’t sure which ones worked.

It's been a while; pretty sure that I bought them online from Jegs or Summit, but possibly direct from Autometer? I don't remember the exact model numbers but they were all basic 1-1/2", short-sweep, black gauges.

Edited to add:

Pretty sure this is the temp gauge I used: https://www.autometer.com/1-1-2-water-temp-100-280-f-elec.html