2-1/16 Sport-Comp, Boost Presssure Gauge, 20 PSI

OVERVIEW

The AutoMeter Sport-Comp series is the quintessential choice for air-cooled enthusiasts who demand professional-grade accuracy and a timeless aesthetic. This 2-1/16 inch mechanical boost gauge is engineered to provide real-time, high-precision data for your turbocharged Volkswagen or high-performance dune buggy project. Featuring the iconic black face, white high-contrast increments, and a vibrant red pointer, the Sport-Comp series isn''t just about looks; it''s about readability at a glance when you''re pinned in the seat of a Baja bug or a boosted Type 1. This gauge monitors positive manifold pressure from 0 to 20 PSI, making it the perfect companion for street-performance turbos where staying within safe boost limits is critical for the longevity of your flat-four engine.

At Appletree Automotive, we know that air-cooled performance often involves pushing boundaries, and nothing kills a high-dollar engine build faster than over-boosting. This mechanical gauge utilizes a precision bronze bourdon tube movement, ensuring that you get a direct, analog response without the lag or electrical interference issues sometimes found in cheaper digital alternatives. The rugged construction is designed to withstand the vibrations and harsh environments of off-road racing or spirited street driving. Included with the gauge is a comprehensive 1/8 inch nylon line kit and necessary fittings, allowing for a straightforward installation into your VW''s induction system. Whether you are running a draw-through or blow-through turbo setup, the AutoMeter Sport-Comp Boost Gauge provides the peace of mind needed to tune your wastegate and monitor your engine''s health with surgical precision.

FITMENT

This universal 2-1/16 inch (52.4mm) gauge is designed to fit standard gauge pods and dashboards across a wide range of Volkswagen and custom off-road applications, including:

• Volkswagen Beetle: All years (1950-1979) equipped with turbochargers or superchargers.
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956-1974 performance builds.
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1950-1979 boosted engine conversions.
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961-1973.
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973-1974.
• Sand Rails & Dune Buggies: Custom dash panels and pods (Manx, Berrien, Chenowth).
• Baja Bugs: Ideal for high-vibration off-road environments.

SPECS

• Brand: AutoMeter
• Series: Sport-Comp
• Part Number: ATM3301
• Gauge Diameter: 2-1/16 Inch (52.4mm)
• Gauge Type: Mechanical
• Range: 0 to 20 PSI Boost
• Face Color: Black
• Bezel Color: Silver / Brushed Aluminum
• Pointer Color: Red
• Lighting: Incandescent (Incudes bulb and socket assembly)
• Movement: 270-degree sweep Bourdon Tube
• Inlet Connection: 1/8 Inch NPT
• Line Kit: Includes 10 ft. nylon tubing and brass fittings
• Mounting Hardware: Includes U-bracket and nuts

PRO TIPS

1. Proper Vacuum Line Routing for Air-Cooled Setups

When installing the 1/8 inch nylon line on a rear-engine Volkswagen, routing is everything. Because the engine moves independently of the chassis, you must ensure there is enough slack in the line where it transitions from the engine to the body to prevent the line from snapping or pulling out of the fitting. We highly recommend using a protective rubber grommet whenever the line passes through the firewall or tinware to prevent the sharp edges from slicing the nylon. If you are running a high-heat turbo setup near the intake manifold, consider upgrading to a copper line for the first 12 inches to prevent the nylon from melting under extreme temperatures.

2. Choosing the Correct Boost Signal Source

For the most accurate reading on your Sport-Comp gauge, always pull your boost signal from the intake manifold, ideally after the throttle body (on blow-through setups) or directly from the manifold plenum. Avoid tapping into the compressor housing of the turbocharger itself, as this will often show a higher pressure than what the engine is actually seeing due to pressure drops across the intercooler or piping. A clean, dedicated vacuum port on the manifold ensures the gauge reflects the true pressure entering your cylinders, which is vital for tuning your wastegate and preventing lean-out conditions.

3. Wiring for Nighttime Visibility

The AutoMeter Sport-Comp gauge comes with a standard incandescent bulb, but to make it truly integrate with your VW dash, we recommend wiring the positive lead of the light socket to your factory headlight switch rheostat. This allows you to dim the gauge brightness along with your speedometer and other cockpit lights. If you find the white light too bright compared to your vintage VDO gauges, you can use the included red or green bulb covers to match your existing interior lighting scheme. Always ensure the gauge is properly grounded to the chassis to prevent flickering or dim lighting performance.