EMPI Tachometer 0-8000 RPM, 3-1/8 Inch

OVERVIEW

Elevate your vintage Volkswagen''s cockpit with the prestige of the EMPI GTV Rally series tachometer. This isn''t just another aftermarket gauge; it''s a masterfully crafted instrument born from a strategic partnership between EMPI and Smiths Gaugesthe legendary British manufacturer responsible for the instrumentation in world-class marques like Porsche and McLaren. Designed to evoke the spirit of the iconic GTV Rally gauges of the 1960s and 70s, this modern iteration blends timeless aesthetics with contemporary precision. Whether you''re rowing through the gears of a high-revving 2276cc stroker or monitoring a stock 1600cc dual-port, this 0-8000 RPM tachometer provides the accuracy and needle response time required for serious street and strip performance. The classic face, adorned with the historic EMPI logo, serves as a focal point in any air-cooled interior, bridging the gap between nostalgic style and professional-grade engineering.

Beyond its striking appearance, this 3-1/8 inch (80mm) tachometer is engineered specifically for the rigors of the air-cooled environment. Made in Great Britain, it features advanced LED lighting that ensures your RPMs are crystal clear during night-time cruises without the flickering or dimness associated with old-school incandescent bulbs. The gauge comes complete with a dedicated wiring harness, simplifying the installation process and ensuring a secure, vibration-resistant connection. It is designed to fit perfectly into EMPI dash panels and standard 80mm mounting brackets, making it a versatile choice for everything from a concours-level restoration to a custom-built Manx buggy. When you choose an EMPI Smiths gauge, you''re investing in a legacy of automotive excellence that ensures your engine''s vitals are monitored by the best in the business.

FITMENT

This universal 12-volt tachometer is designed for air-cooled Volkswagen applications and custom builds, including but not limited to:

• Volkswagen Type 1: Standard Beetle and Super Beetle (1946-1979)
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, Kombi, and Microbus (1950-1979)
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback (1961-1973)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: Coupe and Convertible (1955-1974)
• Volkswagen Type 181: The Thing (1973-1974)
• Custom Applications: Meyer''s Manx, Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, and Kit Cars

SPECS

• Manufacturer: EMPI in partnership with Smiths Gauges
• RPM Range: 0 to 8,000 RPM
• Face Diameter: 3-1/8 Inch (80mm)
• Face Color: Black with White Lettering and Red Needle
• Lighting: Integrated LED for superior nighttime visibility
• Country of Origin: Made in Great Britain
• Voltage: 12-Volt Systems
• Compatibility: Works with 4, 6, and 8-cylinder engines (Selectable)
• Logo: Features the Authentic EMPI Script Logo
• Included Components: Gauge, Mounting Bracket, and Wiring Harness

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Proper Signal Source Selection

For the most accurate RPM reading on a standard air-cooled VW ignition system, you should connect the tachometer signal wire directly to the negative (-) terminal of the ignition coil (often labeled Terminal 1). However, if you are running a high-output CDI (Capacitive Discharge Ignition) box like an MSD or Pertronix Second Strike, do NOT connect the signal wire to the coil. Instead, use the dedicated "Tach Output" port on the ignition box to prevent damaging the sensitive electronics inside your Smiths gauge. Always ensure your ground connection is clean and attached to a solid chassis point to avoid needle "bounce" or erratic readings.

Tip 2: Perfecting the Dash Cutout

The 3-1/8 inch (80mm) diameter is the industry standard for large-format gauges, but fitment can be tight in original steel dashes. If you are not using a pre-fabricated EMPI dash panel, use a high-quality hole saw specifically rated for metal and run it at a slow speed to prevent overheating the paint. Once the hole is cut, use a small round file to de-burr the edges and apply a thin layer of touch-up paint or primer to the exposed metal edge. This prevents rust from forming behind the gauge bezel and ensures the rubber sealing ring seats perfectly against the dash for a professional, factory-installed look.

Tip 3: Calibrating for 4-Cylinder Precision

Before finalizing your installation, ensure the DIP switches on the back of the gauge are correctly set for a 4-cylinder engine. These gauges are often shipped in a default configuration that may be set for 8-cylinder domestic engines. If the switches are set incorrectly, your RPM reading will be exactly half (or double) of the actual engine speed. Refer to the included Smiths wiring schematic to verify the switch positions for a 4-pulse signal. Setting this correctly before you bolt the dash back together will save you the frustration of having to pull the gauge back out for a simple calibration adjustment.