2-5/8 Oil Temp Liquid

OVERVIEW

When you''re pushing a high-performance air-cooled engine to its limits, monitoring your oil temperature isn''t just a suggestion; it''s a necessity for survival. Unlike water-cooled engines that have a radiator to mask internal heat issues, your Volkswagen engine relies on its oil as a primary cooling agent. The AutoMeter ATM5447 Pro-Comp series oil temperature gauge provides the precision and durability required to keep a watchful eye on your lubricant''s thermal state. Featuring a larger 2-5/8 inch face, this gauge offers superior visibility compared to standard smaller units, making it the preferred choice for drag racers, off-road enthusiasts, and Baja Bug owners who need to read their vitals at a glance while bouncing through the whoops or screaming down the strip. The liquid-filled appearance and rugged air core meter movement ensure that the needle remains steady and accurate, even when subjected to the high-frequency vibrations common in modified VW drivetrains.

The AutoMeter Pro-Comp electric gauge series is legendary in the world of motorsports for its ability to withstand the harshest environments. While many standard gauges fail under the stress of off-road racing or high-RPM air-cooled applications, the ATM5447 is built with a heavy-duty internal structure that mimics the dampening effects of liquid-filled mechanical gauges without the complexity of running a capillary line into the cockpit. This electric configuration allows for a much cleaner installation, using a simple sending unit and wiring harness that won''t leak oil inside your pristine interior. Whether you are cruising a show-quality Karmann Ghia or navigating a sand rail through the dunes, this gauge provides the peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly when your oil is reaching its breakdown point. At Appletree Automotive, we only recommend parts that we know can handle the heat, and AutoMeter continues to be the industry leader for air-cooled monitoring solutions.

FITMENT

This gauge is designed for universal 12-volt negative ground systems and is the professional choice for the following air-cooled Volkswagen applications:

• VW Type 1 Beetle / Bug: All years and models, specifically optimized for modified dashes and center consoles.
• VW Super Beetle: 1971-1979 models requiring high-accuracy thermal monitoring.
• VW Type 2 Bus / Transporter / Kombi: 1950-1979 models (Split Window and Bay Window).
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961-1973 performance builds.
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1955-1974 custom interior and racing setups.
• VW Type 181 Thing: 1973-1974 models used in off-road or demanding environments.
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: All custom tube chassis applications and fiberglass bodies.
• Baja Bugs: Essential for off-road endurance racing where oil heat is a critical factor.

SPECS

• Product Brand: AutoMeter
• Series: Pro-Comp Electric
• Part Number: ATM5447
• Gauge Diameter: 2-5/8 inches (66.7mm)
• Temperature Range: 140 to 280 Degrees Fahrenheit
• Movement Type: Rugged Air Core (Liquid Filled Appearance)
• Voltage: 12 Volt DC Systems
• Bezel Finish: Silver / Brushed Aluminum Style
• Face Color: Black with High-Contrast White Lettering
• Pointer Color: Red (Fluorescent)
• Included Hardware: Mounting Bracket and associated nuts.
• Sending Unit: Requires AutoMeter 1/8 inch NPT sender (check kit contents for specific inclusions).

PRO TIPS

PRO TIP 1: Choose the Right Sending Unit Location. For the most accurate oil temperature reading on an air-cooled VW engine, we recommend installing the sending unit in the oil pressure relief valve hole using an adapter, or directly into a high-quality aftermarket deep sump. Avoid installing the sender in the stock oil pressure switch hole unless you are using a ''''T'''' adapter, but be aware that locations further from the main oil flow may provide slightly lower readings. The oil sump is generally considered the best place to measure the bulk oil temperature before it is pumped back through the engine.

PRO TIP 2: Ensure a Perfect Ground for Accuracy. Electric gauges are highly sensitive to electrical resistance. When installing the ATM5447, ensure that your engine block is properly grounded to the chassis with a heavy-duty strap. If you are using Teflon tape on the sender threads, leave the first two threads bare or use a conductive thread sealant. Excess Teflon tape can insulate the sender from the block, creating high resistance that will result in the gauge showing an incorrectly high or low temperature. Always double-check your ground connections if the needle seems to jump or behave erratically.

PRO TIP 3: Plan Your Dash Space Accordingly. Remember that this is a 2-5/8 inch gauge, which is significantly larger than the standard 2-1/16 inch (52mm) gauges found in many VW accessory panels. Before ordering, verify that your dashboard or gauge pod has the clearance for this larger diameter. The benefit of the 2-5/8 inch size is massive: it provides a much higher resolution of the temperature scale, allowing you to see a 5-degree fluctuation that might be missed on a smaller gauge. This extra size is a lifesaver when you are wearing a helmet or driving in high-vibration off-road conditions.