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General Information => Upgrades (non engine related ) => Topic started by: Jettage1 on February 07, 2009, 08:29:47 pm

Title: Boost gauge question
Post by: Jettage1 on February 07, 2009, 08:29:47 pm

I just finished installing a VDO boost gauge.  Seems to make a slight buzzing noise, mostly when off-throttle (idle or coasting).  I checked my tube connections & they are tight.  The sound seems to come from within the gauge.  Is this just normal operating behavior for a boost gauge?  I don't have any reference point...

Thanks!

P.S. Putting out 11-12 psi with K14 & Giles pump.  Stock 2" exhaust (cat removed).

Title: Boost gauge question
Post by: Jettage1 on February 09, 2009, 04:06:52 pm

Any input?  This thing is making me crazy (as if the engine wasn't loud enough already).  The sound is kind of tinny / sounds like someone swiping a nail across a small loose spring...

Normal?  Or do I need to take it up with the store I bought it from?

TIA...

Title: Boost gauge question
Post by: AudiVWguy on February 09, 2009, 06:15:17 pm

All the boost gauges I've owned have been silent. Tell the company it's defective.

Title: Boost gauge question
Post by: truckinwagen on February 09, 2009, 06:52:16 pm

mechanical boost gauges often buzz, you can try putting a restriction in the line going to it, that is supposed to help.

Title: Boost gauge question
Post by: Jettage1 on February 09, 2009, 06:57:20 pm

Quote from: "truckinwagen"

mechanical boost gauges often buzz, you can try putting a restriction in the line going to it, that is supposed to help.

Hmmm... like pinching the rubber hose?  (I'm using rubber vac line for about a foot from the tee, then it goes to the hard plastic stuff for the rest of the trip.)  I'll try a clothespin as an experiment maybe.

Thanks for the idea!

If that fails, then it's back to the store!

Title: Boost gauge question
Post by: zukgod1 on February 09, 2009, 07:51:12 pm

i've used one of those little water valves to restrict them before.
bought it from the local Napa parts store.

That buzzing is nasty huh?

Title: Boost gauge question
Post by: Vincent Waldon on February 09, 2009, 08:17:48 pm

Various manufacturers sell a boost gauge tee with a built-in restriction for this *exact* reason.  

There's one about 3/4 down this page, for example:

http://www.concept1.ca/engine%20gauges.htm

Killed the buzz in my gauge immediately, with no noticeable increase in lag.

Title: Boost gauge question
Post by: Jettage1 on February 10, 2009, 04:53:47 am

Tried the clothespin this morning.  Initially no difference, but once the car warmed up I think the line softened a bit more and I ended up with little to no buzz.  Hallelujah!

Thanks Vince & Dan for the ideas!  I have an old brass aquarium air line valve I could probably use, but I'd be afraid it would be constantly vibrating open.  Think I'll go the tee route.  

I love this forum!   :D