Vaccuum Gauges

1 Dollar · Feb 25, 2009

Is it practical or useful to have a vacuum gauge in the trucks of today? I know older bigger trucks had them standard. And I’ve read how you can put them in a vehicle and watch how much gas you are giving it, and hopefully fix your bad habits and get better gas mileage.

I recently put one in my 1999 F-150 with a 4.6 and a 5 speed, hoping it would help me out a little bit. It shows me all that I mentioned above, but there is nothing I can change driving-style wise after watching the gauge. This truck just doesn't have enough power I don't think. If I kept the gauge in the "green" zone (above 12) then I don't think I could hit 40 MPH. I usually shift between 2100-2500 RPM, and aim to keep it above 1400.

So, any experiences with vacuum gauges in newer trucks/vehicles?

Thanks

hay · Feb 26, 2009

vacuum gauges tell what the engine is doing. good vacuum is about 19-20 on the gauge. i used one to gauge my driving habits and increased my mileage. it will teach you to 'feather foot' when accelerating. maintaining the higest vacuum at accelerating is where the best mileage is. vacuum gauges also can tell of internal engine problems by watching how the needle goes. a manual should come with a gauge.

john_Bud · Mar 1, 2009

I don't think you will get much more information from a vac gauge. It's the same thing as the instant fuel econ on the drivers info center - but less accurate.

They are however good to tell if you have clogged air filters, or timing slips. But with computer controlled timing - no slip and with the little air pressure tell tale, no real gain there either.

jb

mattofvinings · Mar 8, 2009

Vacuum simply has to do with the throttle opening....

I can't think of a good reason to go thru all the installation work to have one.

Vaccuum Gauges

1 Dollar

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hay

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john_Bud

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mattofvinings

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