Boost gauge question - Upgrades (non engine related ) - VWDiesel.net The IDI, TDI, and mTDI source.

• Boost gauge question by Jettage1 on 07 Feb, 2009 20:29
• 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).
• #1 by Jettage1 on 09 Feb, 2009 16:06
• 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...
• #2 by AudiVWguy on 09 Feb, 2009 18:15
• All the boost gauges I've owned have been silent. Tell the company it's defective.
• #3 by truckinwagen on 09 Feb, 2009 18:52
• mechanical boost gauges often buzz, you can try putting a restriction in the line going to it, that is supposed to help.
• #4 by Jettage1 on 09 Feb, 2009 18:57
• 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!
• #5 by zukgod1 on 09 Feb, 2009 19:51
• 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?
• #6 by Vincent Waldon on 09 Feb, 2009 20:17
• 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.
• #7 by Jettage1 on 10 Feb, 2009 04:53
• 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!