I want to install a boost gauge on a stock truck. Wish to be able to know if I've got a boost leak and have a starting point for other mods. I have Isspro gauges currently and want to match. Looks like they are pretty cheap, so I want to install one. This will help to evaluate if I need new boost elbows, etc.

My gut feeling is that my boost is not providing all it should. Seems easier to install a gauge than to build a boost testing unit. Although that would be cool too. Can't find that article or thread.

Where does the boost gauge get tapped into the boost system for reading?

Edited January 29, 201411 yr by joecool911

People drill and tap the intake horn or use a boost bolt that replaces a bolt on the intake cover.  I have read a few stories where people snap the bolt by tightening a little too much.  I would remove the horn and drill it personally.  I looked on here and couldn't find the article but I did find a few on CF.  http://www.cumminsforum.com/forum/98-5-02-powertrain/623182-diy-boost-leak-tester-how.html

Thanks. Yes, I agree that removing the horn and drill/tap in the shop seems the safest way to go.

Thanks for the link. That's an easy one!

I used a boost bolt. It came with the Isspro EV 1 gauge I bought. While the boost gauge will alert to lost boost, it wont tell you where the leak is. You need to pressurize the system to find any leaks. I made one out of a 4X3 fernco coupling. I bushed the 3" side down and installed an air connection. The 4" side is a little big and after tightening the clamp I had to put 2 small bar clamps to hold it on the turbo. t is a  little crude but it worked and I found my leaks.

 Someone here has a better set up but I dont remember where of who.

 

 

IIRC there is a spot forward of the MAP sensor that can be used. I believe Mike has his tapped at that location.

Edited January 29, 201411 yr by dripley

Is the 40psi gauge enough? I'd rather have the gauge use it's full range of motion than have to stare at a 100 psi gauge and figure out where it's at.

That all depends on what you plan to do with the truck. If you are going to leave the stock turbo on it I would go with the 40psi. If you plan to put a bigger turbo on and do some fueling upgrades I would go with a 60 or a 100. All depends on your plans!

I use a 60 PSI gauge. My first came that way with the Banks system I bought. The Isspro I have is 60 PSI also. From what I have read here it is much better than the 100 PSI due to the range of boost that I make( around 33 when all is right ). The 40 PSI might be a little light depending on the amount of boost you are seeing. You dont want to be pushing the gauge near the max a lot. Somebody correct me if I am wrong, please.

Or the simplest yet... Hook it right next to the MAP sensor.

 

^^^Thats the one I was thinking about. Might do that myself one day. Looks like a good location and you would be able to route the tubing out of the way. 

What is that fitting originally for? The one next to the map sensor.

Edited January 30, 201411 yr by joecool911

I think there is just a plug in it. I havent heard of anything else being used there.

 

On second though, could that port be used to apply air pressure while trying to diagnose boost leaks? You would just need something to plug off the air intake on the turbo but that might be easier than making a connector to fit on the turbo. It would be real easy to find fittings to put into the manifold there.