volt meter question

hey guys, i'm looking to install the usual gauges and was going to go with the autron pillar pod set up. but i have changed my mind and have decided to install autometer gauges in a pillar pod, simply because they match the standard gauges and still look pretty neat. my question is, if i get a 3 gauge pod and put a volt meter in (like in the link below) can i put a small button in the pod beside the gauge to switch from battery 1 to battery 2? was thinking a little button that doesn't stay pressed so when released it goes back to battery one, when held in it shows battery 2 volts. is this possible or am i on another planet? thanks gents, appreciate any advice.

http://performanceparts.com/part/Auto-Meter/3391

jamie

I'm no Auto Elect, but can't see why you couldn't set up something like that, I'm sure someone more intelligent than me will be along soon that could give you better advise :)

Hi Jamie,

Yes it can be done, you just need to find a momentary switch that you like the look of and will fit in the pod.

I found this one on Narva's website (but I think it will be to big) part number 60040BL

http://www.narva.com.au/products/browse/push-button

I had a look at Jaycar Electronics website but didn't find anything, although I am sure they do have them.

I recommend that you go into one of their stores and ask them.

Ideally you want the switch to have two sets of contacts, one set of contacts are closed and the other set of contacts are open with the switch in the rest position.

Then when the switch is pressed in, the set of contacts that were closed are now open and the contacts that were open are now closed.

But it really doesn't matter what type of momentary switch you get, we can make it work with the use of a relay or two relays depending on how you would like the gauges to work.

Cheers Rodney

I'm no auto leccy also, but thinking you may need a three way switch , on, off, on and this would be too big for the pillar pod to hold, may need the switch elsewhere.


Sent from my iPhone. Please excuse the spelling.

whynot get a guage that does both batteries at once then you dont need to take the hands off the wheel have seen them on ebay

I had similar thoughts, but decided to pull the trigger on the autron gauges (was previously thinking autometer). Have yet to install them (or even pick up the car from the yard). Hopefully will all be done in a weeks time.

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Originally Posted by my third

whynot get a guage that does both batteries at once then you dont need to take the hands off the wheel have seen them on ebay

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i have googled high and low and have not seen one apart from the autron and i would prefer to stick with the one maker so if autometer don't do a dual meter, and my button idea is a no go or more hassle than its worth then i'll just go for a pod of 2 and carry a voltmeter in the toolbag.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Steveo_the_Devo

I had similar thoughts, but decided to pull the trigger on the autron gauges (was previously thinking autometer). Have yet to install them (or even pick up the car from the yard). Hopefully will all be done in a weeks time.

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what sold you on the autron stevo if you don't mind me asking?

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Originally Posted by buzz

what sold you on the autron stevo if you don't mind me asking?

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I just liked the idea of getting the 4 gauge readings (5 if you include the cabin/outside temp probe) from 2 gauge pods. I couldn't find a huge number of other options.

I'm not much of a fan of the LCD screen gauge - figure the standard gauges are easier to read in sunlight etc - but I haven't seen any reliability issues posted re Autron gauges. Figured the extra real estate I would save by having to install another voltmeter gauge was worth the extra $$ that you need for the Autro setup.

I'm hoping to have it all installed early next week - will post up my progress when its done :)

Like Yendor said... this is all you need http://www.altronics.com.au/index.as...=item&id=S1391

Cost $5 or so ... Almost any better electronics store will have them or similar

Batt 1 + to the NC
Batt 2 + to the NO
Voltmeter + to the common

Then the Voltmeter will read Battery 1 unless the switch is held then it will read battery 2.

Don't get a switch that latches... momentary is the way to go then you don't get confused which battery is being monitored