VDO Vacuum/Boost Gauge & Autometer A-Pillar Gauge Pod - HermanH
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Disclaimer: By reading this, the reader accepts full responsibility in performing the following work at his or her own risk. B5one cannot assume responsibility for any damage, injury, dismemberment or death, as a result of you the reader, following our instructions. We supply this information freely, for those interested in knowing what is involved with such modifications. If you find you would like to perform a similar modification to your vehicle, we urge you to first seek the advice of a qualified mechanic prior to undertaking any of the work. Some work will require physical strength that may be beyond your ability to perform.

DIY Rating:   Moderate (3/5 Wrenches).

People Needed:   1

Tools Necessary:

• Power Drill
• Various Drill bits from 1/8" to 1/4"
• Diagonal Cutters
• Crimp Tool or Soldering Iron
• Inline splicer or solder
• Electrical tape (if soldering)

In my opinion, a boost gauge should be essential to any turbocharged vehicle. For years, Volvo had a boost gauge for their turbo-diesels, albeit there were no numbers; just green and red regions. In this installation page, I've opted not to reinvent the wheel. Please refer to this URL: http://www.seansa4page.com/mya4s/97/boost/boost.html which is how I installed my first gauge. Sean's write up is a good read and the photos are quite good. (Since then, I've moved from the dash mount to the permanent A-pillar mount.)

NOTE: the difference between the A4 and Passat is the lack of the terminal post #58X. In this particular case, I decided to link the illumination bulb to an unused fuse cavity but the problem here was it is always lit when the key is in the ignition. I am still in search of a better hot lead where it turns on only when the console lights are on. A lead on the light switch is strongly recommended.

Also, keep in mind that later models have the A-Pillar Air Bags. You must decide if you're willing to interfere with the Airbag pillar cover. Consult the PassatWorld forums to determine the feasibility of using the A-pillar for gauge mounting.

The Autometer A-pillar (Autometer part number: 20847 - single gauge, 20846 - dual gauge) is installed by drilling four holes into the plastic A-pillar cover and using the 4 snap buttons to secure it to the a-pillar cover. The VDO "Vision Series" gauge which I decided to go with, is a mechanical 2-1/16" dia. gauge which reads 0-30 In.Hg to 0-25 PSI. The part number according to VDO of North America, is 150-121. Also, you will need to purchase the tubing kit; there are two types: 6' and 16'. I recommend the 16' only in the event you accidentally "kink" the line (it's happened so it save us a trip!):

Designed for 1/8-27 and 1/4 -18 NPT adapters.
6' plastic tubing:   150-851
16' plastic tubing:   150 855

INSTRUCTIONS

The following steps covers the A-pillar mount; please refer to Sean's notes for attaching the vacuum tube to the "T" and through the ECU/firewall access.

1. Take the pillar pod and position it where you want the gauge to be; use a pen to mark the four mounting holes.


2. Remove the a-pillar cover by sliding the cover up a little bit and away from the pillar. Also remove the fuse box panel on the side of the console. Drill four holes at the spots you marked earlier. Use the recommended drill bit indicated on the Autometer instructions.


3. Route the vacuumed tube through the a-pillar from the ECU access/firewall. Having the fuse cover off helps you wiggle the tube and the wires towards the base of the a-pillar. Be careful not to kinkÊ the tubing.


4. Locate a spot between the 4 holes and drill a 1/4" hole for the tube and electrical to pass through. Pass the tube and wires through the Autometer pod and begin installing the tube and wires to the VDO gauge. At this time, nothing is bolted together yet.


5. Once the VDO gauge has been attached, turn on the engine and ensure there is NO leaking at the gauge. Better to get this done now than later! Also check the electrical to ensure you get some lighting in the gauge.


6. Now force fit the gauge into the Autometer pod. It WILL be a tight fit but that's what we want! Note it's orientation and test position it at the A-pillar to be sure things are oriented the way you want it.


7. Now using the 4 mounting buttons, secure the Autometer pod to the A-pillar cover.


8. Put the entire assembly back onto the A-pillar; try to take up some of the slack of the wires and tube.


9. The excess wire and tube should be tie-wrapped underneath to tidy up the installation. Put the fuse cover back on and enjoy!

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