1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Auto Meter 2391 Autogage Electric Mini Oil/Volt/Water Gauge. This gauge console is designed to provide essential vehicle performance data, including oil pressure, water temperature, and system voltage, in a compact and easy-to-read format. Proper installation and understanding of these instructions will ensure accurate readings and reliable performance.
The Auto Meter 2391 Autogage Electric Mini Gauge Console features three 1.5-inch gauges: a water temperature gauge (TEMP °F), an oil pressure gauge (PRESS PSI), and a voltmeter (VOLTS). The gauges are housed in a black console, designed for easy mounting. Each gauge face is black with white numbering and red, yellow, and green indicator zones for quick reference of operating conditions.
2. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety during installation and operation. Failure to follow these safety guidelines may result in personal injury or damage to the product or vehicle.
- Disconnect Battery: Before beginning any electrical work, disconnect the vehicle's battery to prevent electrical shorts and potential injury.
- Professional Installation: If you are unfamiliar with automotive electrical systems or mechanical installations, it is recommended to seek assistance from a qualified professional.
- Hot Surfaces: Engine components, especially during sender installation, can be extremely hot. Allow the engine to cool completely before working on it.
- Wiring: Ensure all wiring is properly routed, secured, and insulated to prevent chafing, short circuits, and interference with moving parts.
- California Proposition 65 Warning: This product may expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
3. What's in the Box
Verify that all components are present before beginning installation:
- Oil Pressure, Water Temp and Volt gauge heads (pre-installed in console)
- Gauge panel mount with mounting hardware
- Water temperature sender
- Oil pressure sender
- Lightbulbs and harnesses
- 3/8" NPT and 1/2" NPT adapter fittings
- Installation instructions (this document)
4. Setup and Installation
Careful installation is crucial for accurate readings and product longevity. Follow these steps for proper setup.
4.1 Mounting the Gauge Console
- Select a suitable location in your vehicle's interior that allows for clear visibility of the gauges without obstructing driving controls or airbags.
- Use the provided mounting hardware to securely attach the gauge panel mount. Ensure the mounting surface is stable and can support the console.
4.2 Electrical Connections
All electrical connections should be made with the vehicle's battery disconnected.
- Power (Ignition Switched 12V+): Connect the main power wire (typically red) from the gauge console to a fused 12-volt ignition-switched power source. This ensures the gauges are only active when the vehicle is on.
- Ground: Connect the ground wire (typically black) to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle chassis or a dedicated ground point. A good ground connection is essential for accurate readings.
- Illumination (Dash Lights): Connect the illumination wire (typically white or orange) to the vehicle's dash lighting circuit. This will allow the gauge backlighting to dim and brighten with your vehicle's dashboard lights.
- Sender Wires: Connect the signal wires from the oil pressure and water temperature gauges to their respective senders. Refer to the specific wiring diagram included with your product for exact color codes.
4.3 Sender Installation
Install the provided senders into appropriate ports on your engine. Ensure threads are clean and use thread sealant if necessary to prevent leaks.
- Oil Pressure Sender: Locate an available 1/8" NPT oil pressure port on your engine. If no port is available, a T-fitting may be required to share the existing oil pressure port. Use the provided 3/8" NPT or 1/2" NPT adapters if needed.
- Water Temperature Sender: Install the water temperature sender into an available 1/8" NPT port in the engine's cooling system, typically near the thermostat housing or in a radiator hose using an inline adapter. Use the provided 3/8" NPT or 1/2" NPT adapters if needed.
After all connections are made, reconnect the vehicle's battery and test the gauges.
5. Operating Instructions
Once installed, the gauges will provide real-time monitoring of your vehicle's critical systems.
- Oil Pressure Gauge (PRESS PSI): Monitors the engine's oil pressure. Normal operating pressure varies by vehicle and engine type but typically falls within the green range. Low oil pressure can indicate a serious engine problem.
- Water Temperature Gauge (TEMP °F): Displays the engine coolant temperature. The green range indicates normal operating temperature. Readings in the yellow or red zones suggest overheating, which requires immediate attention.
- Voltmeter (VOLTS): Shows the vehicle's electrical system voltage. A healthy charging system typically reads between 13.5 and 14.5 volts when the engine is running. Readings below 12 volts (engine off) or below 13 volts (engine running) may indicate a battery or alternator issue.
Familiarize yourself with your vehicle's normal operating ranges for each parameter.
6. Maintenance
The Auto Meter 2391 gauges require minimal maintenance to ensure continued accuracy and appearance.
- Cleaning: Clean the gauge faces and console with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the plastic or finish.
- Connection Checks: Periodically inspect all electrical and sender connections to ensure they remain tight and free from corrosion.
- Bulb Replacement: If a gauge's backlight fails, the incandescent bulb can be replaced. Refer to the original wiring diagram for bulb type and replacement procedure.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your gauges, consult the following troubleshooting guide:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Gauge does not light up | No power to illumination wire; faulty bulb; poor ground. | Check illumination wire connection and fuse; replace bulb; verify ground connection. |
| Gauge reads zero or maximum | Faulty sender; open circuit in sender wire; poor ground. | Test sender resistance; check sender wire for continuity; verify gauge and sender grounds. |
| Inaccurate readings | Incorrect sender type; poor electrical connections; electrical interference. | Ensure correct sender is used; check all wiring connections; re-route wires away from ignition components. |
| Voltmeter reads low/high | Battery/alternator issue; poor power/ground connection to gauge. | Test vehicle's battery and charging system; verify power and ground connections to the voltmeter. |
If problems persist after troubleshooting, contact Auto Meter customer support.
8. Specifications
- Brand: AUTO METER
- Model: 2391
- Gauge Type: Electric Mini Oil Pressure, Water Temperature, Voltmeter
- Gauge Diameter: 1.500 inches
- Console Material: Plastic
- Item Weight: 1.5 Pounds
- Bulb Type: Incandescent
- UPC: 046074023910, 250978404366
- Country of Origin: United States
9. Warranty and Support
For information regarding product warranty, technical support, or replacement parts, please contact Auto Meter directly through their official website or customer service channels. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of ownership.
