2-5/8 Pro-Comp Liquid

OVERVIEW

When you''re pushing a high-performance air-cooled engine to its limits, whether it''s a high-revving drag Beetle or a turbo-charged sand rail screaming across the dunes, keeping a precise eye on your oil pressure is the difference between a podium finish and a catastrophic engine failure. The AutoMeter 2-5/8 inch Pro-Comp Liquid-Filled Mechanical Oil Pressure Gauge (ATM5426) is the gold standard for serious racers and off-road enthusiasts who demand absolute accuracy in the most punishing environments. Unlike standard gauges that suffer from needle flutter caused by engine harmonics and chassis vibration, this Pro-Comp series unit is filled with a specialized liquid dampener. This fluid stabilizes the pointer, providing a rock-solid reading even when you''re bouncing through a whoop section or hitting the rev limiter, while simultaneously lubricating the internal movement to significantly extend the life of the instrument.

The 2-5/8 inch diameter face provides a significantly larger viewing area compared to standard 2-1/16 inch gauges, making it much easier to monitor your vitals at a glance during high-speed maneuvers. This mechanical gauge operates with a 0-100 PSI range, offering the high resolution needed to detect even slight fluctuations in pressure that could indicate a thinning oil supply or a failing pump. The classic Pro-Comp silver bezel and high-contrast black face with white numbering offer a professional, competition-ready aesthetic that complements any custom VW dashboard or overhead console. Built with AutoMeter''s legendary race-proven toughness, this gauge is designed to withstand the extreme heat and constant vibration inherent in the air-cooled Volkswagen world, ensuring that you always have the data you need to protect your investment.

FITMENT

This gauge is a universal mechanical instrument that can be adapted to virtually any air-cooled or water-cooled vehicle. For the VW enthusiast, it is ideal for:

• Volkswagen Type 1: Standard Beetle, Super Beetle, and Karmann Ghia (All Years).
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, Kombi, and Westfalia (1950-1979).
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback.
• Volkswagen Type 181: The Thing.
• Custom Builds: Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, Manx-style bodies, and Baja Bugs.
• Engine Compatibility: Fits 1200cc, 1300cc, 1500cc, and 1600cc Based Upright Engines, as well as Type 4 (1700cc, 1800cc, 2000cc) pancake engines.

SPECS

• Brand: AutoMeter
• Series: Pro-Comp Liquid-Filled
• Product Type: Mechanical Oil Pressure Gauge
• Face Diameter: 2-5/8 Inches (66.7mm)
• Pressure Range: 0-100 PSI
• Gauge Movement: 270-degree Full Sweep
• Fill Material: Liquid-filled for vibration dampening
• Bezel Finish: Silver
• Face Color: Black
• Pointer Color: Fluorescent Red
• Fitting Size: 1/8 inch NPT Male
• Lighting: Perimeter Incandescent (Includes bulb and socket assembly)
• Mounting Hardware: Includes mounting bracket and nuts

PRO TIPS

1. Upgrade to Copper or Braided Lines

While many mechanical gauges come with nylon plastic tubing, we strongly recommend upgrading to a copper line kit or a braided stainless steel -3AN line for your air-cooled VW. The heat generated by the cylinder heads and exhaust can easily melt plastic lines, leading to a massive oil leak and potential fire. A metallic line provides the durability needed for the high-temperature environment of a Volkswagen engine bay and ensures that the high-pressure oil stays inside the system where it belongs.

2. Proper Case Venting

Because this gauge is liquid-filled, it is sensitive to changes in ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure, which can cause the internal pressure of the gauge case to change and slightly affect the accuracy of the needle. You may notice a small rubber plug at the top of the gauge. For the most accurate readings, especially if you are traveling from sea level to high-altitude mountain trails, it is a good practice to briefly "vent" the gauge by pulling the edge of the rubber plug to equalize the internal pressure with the atmosphere.

3. Use a Dual-Port Oil Pressure Sender Adapter

Don''t sacrifice your factory "idiot light" just to run a high-performance gauge. We recommend using a dual-port oil pressure sender adapter (often called a "T-fitting") at the stock oil pressure switch location on the engine block. This allows you to keep your factory 12V warning light for immediate notification of total pressure loss while simultaneously plumbing the 1/8 inch NPT line for your AutoMeter Pro-Comp gauge. It''s the best way to have both a visual data stream and an emergency alert system.