2-5/8 Pro-Comp Liquid

OVERVIEW

When you are pushing your air-cooled Volkswagen to the limit, whether it is screaming across the dunes in a long-travel sand rail or navigating stop-and-go traffic in a restored vintage Beetle, your engine''s oil pressure is its lifeblood. The AutoMeter 2-5/8 Pro-Comp Liquid-Filled Mechanical Oil Pressure Gauge (ATM5427) is the gold standard for serious enthusiasts who demand absolute precision and rugged durability. Unlike standard gauges that can suffer from "needle bounce" due to engine vibration or rough terrain, this Pro-Comp series gauge utilizes a liquid-filled design to dampen internal movement. This ensures the pointer remains rock-steady and easy to read even in the harshest high-vibration environments, allowing you to monitor your Type 1, Type 2, or Type 4 engine''s health with total confidence. It is not just a gauge; it is a critical piece of insurance for your high-performance investment.

The aesthetic of the Pro-Comp series is legendary in the racing world, featuring a high-contrast black face, bold white numbering, and a brushed aluminum bezel that looks right at home in a custom aluminum dash or a classic VDO-style layout. This mechanical gauge provides a direct, real-time pressure reading from the engine block to the dial, eliminating the lag or electrical interference sometimes associated with electronic sending units. Measuring at 2-5/8 inches, it provides a larger, more legible viewing area than standard 2-inch gauges, making it the preferred choice for competition vehicles where a split-second glance is all you have to verify engine vitals. When you choose AutoMeter through Appletree Auto, you are getting a race-proven instrument that has been the backbone of the off-road and drag racing community for decades.

FITMENT

This universal high-performance gauge is designed to be compatible with a wide range of air-cooled and water-cooled applications, specifically tailored for custom dash installations in the following:

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle, Bug, and Super Beetle (All Years).
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, Kombi, and Microbus (1950-1979).
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback.
• Volkswagen Type 181: Thing.
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: All Years.
• Off-Road & Custom: Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, Manx-style bodies, and Baja Bugs.
• Engine Compatibility: Fits 1600cc dual port, 1776cc, 1835cc, 1914cc, 2110cc, 2275cc, and larger stroker engines.

SPECS

The AutoMeter ATM5427 is engineered with the following technical specifications to ensure professional-grade performance:

• Gauge Diameter: 2-5/8 inches (66.7mm).
• Gauge Type: Mechanical Oil Pressure.
• Pressure Range: 0 to 100 PSI.
• Fluid Filling: Liquid-filled (Glycerin) for superior vibration dampening and internal lubrication.
• Dial Color: Professional Black face with high-visibility White increments.
• Bezel Finish: Brushed Aluminum for a classic, rugged look.
• Pointer Color: High-contrast Fluorescent Red.
• Fitting Size: Includes 1/8 inch NPT threads for universal engine block or oil pump plate attachment.
• Installation Kit: Includes 10 feet of nylon tubing and various brass adapters.
• Illumination: Incandescent bulb with red and green bulb covers for custom night-time viewing.

PRO TIPS

Pro Tip 1: Upgrade to Copper Lines for Safety. While the included nylon tubing is functional for many street applications, as air-cooled VW specialists, we strongly recommend upgrading to a copper or braided stainless steel line kit. Air-cooled engines often run higher oil temperatures than modern water-cooled vehicles; copper lines provide a much higher level of protection against melting or cracking, preventing a potential oil fire or engine failure if a line were to rupture inside the cabin.

Pro Tip 2: The Importance of the Vent Plug. Because this is a liquid-filled gauge, it is sensitive to changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure which can cause the internal pressure of the gauge casing to change, slightly shifting the "zero" point of the needle. AutoMeter includes a small rubber plug or "toggle" on the top of the gauge. For the most accurate readings, especially if you are traveling from sea level to high-altitude mountain trails, briefly snip the tip of the plug or toggle it to equalize the internal pressure with the atmosphere.

Pro Tip 3: Proper Fitting Sealant Usage. When installing the 1/8 inch NPT fitting into your oil pump cover or engine case, always use a high-quality thread sealant like Teflon tape or a specialized liquid pipe sealant. However, be extremely careful not to apply sealant to the first two threads of the fitting. This prevents any excess sealant from breaking off and entering your oiling system, which could potentially clog an oil gallery or damage your bearings. Consistency in your oil pressure readings starts with a leak-free and debris-free installation.