Skip to main content

Reply to "Accessory Gauge Housing / 3D Printing Project"

.

I never could figure out why standard practice doesn't include an ignition cutout relay wired to the low oil pressure warning light circuit. That would stop the motor the instant oil pressure goes critical - not five minutes later when the driver (might) notice the light.

You would need some kind of override for starting, but another relay wired to the starter button could handle that.

I think the gradual loss of almost all true gauges over the years has been equal parts cost cutting and the push by automakers to make cars seem somehow more 'trouble free' than old-fashioned, complex machines that require constant driver attention.

Most consumers probably think the 'freedom' from having to monitor gauges is a good thing - like 15,000-mile oil changes and 100,000-mile maintenance. Make the infotainment as complex as possible, but don't bug me with having to watch some stupid gauge.

You could argue that oil pressure was the first gauge to go because oil pumps are generally more reliable than water pumps and liquid cooling systems. Ammeters pretty much disappeared when more reliable alternators replaced generators. (I remember that generator failure was one of the most common problems in the 1950's, probably because standard practice used brushes that wore out.) But we still have temperature gauges - even on many modern cars.

The original Miata was the first new 'consumer' car in many years to have a real oil pressure gauge, largely because Bob Hall insisted no true sports car would be without one, and every true sports car driver would keep his eyes glued to it. But just to show how much tiny cost savings can influence these decisions, the gauge was replaced after a few years by what was in effect an idiot light made to look like a gauge.

.

Last edited by Sacto Mitch
×
×
×
×
×