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Carves
10-11-2011, 10:05 AM
Had a request for some info on this thing after I mentioned it in a thread recently.

Its one of several types available down here ... and I'm guessing there is :usa: equivalents available - since the components and technology have been around for a while.

Some links to http://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Flags/australia-flag-06.gif websites are at the bottom of the post.


This is what it looks like after unwrapping the packaging ...

Display Unit, Cig Plug Power Supply and Bolt On Probe .. all hooked up ready to go.

http://i1143.photobucket.com/albums/n629/carves-oz/Tools%20and%20Test/TempGauge01.jpg


What does it do ??

Its an alternative to a normal gauge ... With other benefits ...
Saves time & hassles compared to installing dial gauges and sensors,
Allows various items - one at a time - to be monitored without needing extra components,
Sounds a high temp warning alarm ( selectable setting ).
Has a 12v trigger output - for relay activation of things like tranny oil, cooler fans or whatever.
Easily provides comparison results against strange/faulty, dash gauge displays.


Is it any good ??

Seems to be ... Ive had mine for a good while now and no faults with it so far.
Has been real useful for a number of reasons.

It does have a couple of minor, general use issues.

One is the red display ... which might nicely match the best jeep colour .. :D ..... but its a bit hard on the eyes at night - when mounted in full view.

Since it has a warning buzzer ... it doesnt need to be in constant view tho ;)

Second is ... Understanding that the displayed temp is not "THE" temp of the oil/whatever ... Until where ever the probe is bolted to - has warmed sufficiently ... The displayed temp is also, generally, a touch lower than actual temps ...

Its similiar to using a IR temp gun - where the displayed temp is the thermostat housing ... not the coolant ;)

For all intensive purposes tho, the displayed temp is close enough ... :thumbsup:


Mine has had a little mod .... :o

I fitted a second sensor to it .... Reason being - like my scangauge ... I bought it more for testing / fault finding than a dashboard filler. However, both items are in constant use instead of being buried at the bottom of the toolbag. :rolleyes:

http://i1143.photobucket.com/albums/n629/carves-oz/Tools%20and%20Test/TempGauge02.jpg


Why the extra sensor ??

One probe is normally on gearbox sump pan bolt ... and the other on the engine cylinder head or some where .....

Sometimes they are on both diffs, or both ends of the engine or radiator, or dangling in the engine bay for underhood temps .... Just depends on what I want to amuse myself with ... :D

... and thats why I got it .... Two probes and display can do lots of things ... and I dont end up with a cab full of 2"dia holes and gauges, tubing and wiring.



In hindsight ... For my requirements ... I probably should have bought this more expensive one - from another mob called WellTempered ... as it has 5 sensors and 5 displays ...

http://i1143.photobucket.com/albums/n629/carves-oz/Tools%20and%20Test/TempGauge20.jpg


All up tho ... Im happy with having spent the money on the TM2 .. :cool:


Links:

http://enginewatchdog.com/

http://enginewatchdog.com/tm2.html

http://welltempered.weebly.com/index.html

Something similiar ... with a different purpose but still handy.

http://www.enginesaver.com.au/