I have the chrome line interior, so I'm looking for a boost gauge that has a chrome bezel. I think I've narrowed it down to two options:

1) Get the Autometer Ultra Lite gauge and have their repair center put a chrome bezel on for $25 + shipping both ways, or

2) Go with the Ultra Lite Marine guage which come with the chrome bezel and is liquid filled.

Has anyone else used a "marine" gauge in an automotive application? Is there any reason this wouldn't work?

Thanks.

 

Here's a few pics of Ultra Lite Marine gauges from the eGauges website (sorry, no pic of a boost/vac gauge).

 

Gauges for marine use usually are more protected(salt water/sparks etc) as long as you can adapt the senders to work with the MINI they should be fine.

How does the cost weigh out?
Having the automotive gauge done with the chrome bezels vs. the marine liquid filled ones?

Liquid filled gauges are usually more expensive, but they are very nice.

 

Prices listed on the eGauges website for boost/vac gauges are:

2-1/16 Ultra Lite (30/20) = $49 + $25 and shipping both ways to have the chrome bezel fitted
2-1/16 Ultra Lite Marine (30/20) = $49

2-5/8 Ultra Lite (30/20) = $52 + $25 and shipping both ways to have the chrome bezel fitted
2-5/8 Ultra Lite Marine (30/30) = $50

 

Looks to me like the marine setup would be cheaper.
You should definitely check with AutoMeter just to make sure the marine ones can be used in a automotive application. I'm pretty sure they can, but they will know for sure.

 

The ONLY problem with the liquid filled gauges is when they leak - and they will. Usually it all seems to come out at once too. I use liquid filled industrial gauges all over my plant, and some of them last a very long time. Others have failed in a few months. The liquid is just glycol, so it's not toxic or anything, but it can be messy........... I'd spend the extra money for the chrome bezel on the dry gauge...........

 

Does it harm the gauge if you drain out the liquid from the start?

 

Ya, I called them yesterday but the guy I need to talk to is out until Thursday. I'll have to call then.

Oh, and one thing I forgot to mention was that the marine gauges don't come with the fitting(s) or the vacuum line, but don't imagine they'd cost much.

 

As an update, I went with the mechanical marine boost gauge. It is NOT liquid filled and it is a GREAT match with the chrome line interior. I also really like the carbon fiber mounting cup. I installed it exept for the wiring for the light. Once that's done I'll post pics.

 

Finally have some pictures (see my gallery). I'm very happy with the end result.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...y.php?cat=2084