Autometer

[Lightingrod]

Anyone using these?

Auto Meter Cobra Gauges - JEGS

[mreid]

I'm not using them, but have a couple of friends who are. I've always liked Autometer, but I think that may be driven more by the fact that you never need a tach adapter if using an MSD box. Anyway, the feedback is that the 2 1/16" gauges are very small (may be an old eye issue), you have to buy the speedo cable reverser separately (A cable reverser is required for this speedometer, contact Speedometer Service Co. at (414) 463-6660), and the needle fell off of two gauges, but they were replaced free with no further problems. They do look really cool!

[bobcowan]

Autometer gauges are all the same. Changing the style only changes the the parts you can see - bezel, face, needle. Internally, they're the same for all types.

[AL427SBF]

If you're going for the period correct look on a 427, why not just get Smiths - they are the real deal.

[Lightingrod]

Originally Posted by mreid

I'm not using them, but have a couple of friends who are. I've always liked Autometer, but I think that may be driven more by the fact that you never need a tach adapter if using an MSD box. Anyway, the feedback is that the 2 1/16" gauges are very small (may be an old eye issue), you have to buy the speedo cable reverser separately (A cable reverser is required for this speedometer, contact Speedometer Service Co. at (414) 463-6660), and the needle fell off of two gauges, but they were replaced free with no further problems. They do look really cool!

Thanks, I missed that. I should have known they would not have built a movement just for Cobra's! I think I will drop the extra $$ and get the new electric version. That will be the ticket if I ever upgrade to a newer transmission.

[jwd]

I had several issues with my AutoMeter Cobra gauges. The water and oil temp were 10-20 degrees C off, and the tach wouldn't work. They replaced the tach, once it came in from China (that's where they are made) but I was told the gauges are for "reference only" and don't necessarily read the exact temp.

[Lightingrod]

I'm not a fan of Smith's or Lucas, of course that is based on thoughts of many years ago. I took a look at some on the net, one site in the UK. Dang it looks like the Value Added Tax (VAT) there is 20%?

After two reports of problems with Auto-Meter I'm having second thoughts. Is the problem just with the Cobra series or all Auto-Meter gauges? I have used Auto-Meter in the past and never had a problem! I guess it's the same old story, when they go off-shore,,,,

Another thought! I want to re-arrange my gauges, so that means filling the holes and/or making a new dash cover. My dash is now vinyl covered, so it's got to go. I'm thinking about covering it with copper sheet. I think it will be a very different look polished out and clear coated. Thoughts?

[mreid]

I think polished copper would be too distracting and perhaps hazardous. These are open top roadsters and the sun hits at all angles. Perhaps engine turned, but even that would need to be sealed so it doesn't corrode. How about one of these:

Textured Metal

[sllib]

Al,
I ordered Autometers with my kit. From the start the water and oil temp gauges didn't work, but I tested them both in hot water before I ran the tubing and Autometer replaced them both for me. My ammeter also didn't work but I replaced it with a voltmeter, which I was going to do anyway. The speedo quit working but that was due to a broken cable, and THAT was due to the reverser gear (not Autometer) being too tight. I took it apart and adjusted it and it works fine now. I also replaced the plastic oil pressure tube with a steel braided hose but that was for my own peace of mind. All in all, if I had to do it all over again I would go with electrc gauges and I would have to think long and hard about going back to Autometer.
Bill Stradtner

[Lightingrod]

I don't know if it would be so reflective as to cause a problem when clear coated! I was also thinking of maybe going for an antique look, maybe heat discoloration etc. Talk about inflation, copper plate is up over 300% since I bought some 4-5 years ago! Back then I made a coffee table top (cover) out of 20 gauge (.032”) sheet but that was a very simple shape. I think 24 gauge (.020”) or even .010” foil would do the trick for the dash. The .010” foil would be easy to work but the fiberglass dash would need to be almost flawless to prevent imperfections from showing through.

Just a thought, I will mostly have the vinyl redone or hold off awhile on gauge replacement. A lot of irons in the fire right now!

[rockman539]

I have autometer electronic gauges, carbon fiber series . They have been trouble free since installation . The calibration was very easy. I know, not exactly period correct but it goes with my smooth glass like paint job on the dash. Dare to be different

[elmariachi]

Originally Posted by Lightingrod

I'm not a fan of Smith's or Lucas, of course that is based on thoughts of many years ago. I took a look at some on the net, one site in the UK. Dang it looks like the Value Added Tax (VAT) there is 20%?

I had AutoMeters in my Cobra but chose to switch to Smiths for a more period-correct look. Nisonger Instruments :: the exclusive Smiths U.S. Warranty & Service Center since 1949 is the US Smiths' dealer. They are Cobra-friendly and service what they sell. The original Cobra gauges aren't the brightest gauges but they look correct and I have personally had pretty good luck.

Jim

[autobody prof.]

I put them in my car. they have worked perfectly from the start.

Don