Autometer 2-1/16 Sport-Comp F

OVERVIEW

Precision fuel management is the backbone of any high-performance air-cooled engine, and the AutoMeter 2-1/16 Sport-Comp Fuel Pressure Gauge (ATM3312) is the industry standard for monitoring your Volkswagen''s vital signs. Designed with the trademarked competition appearance that has dominated drag strips and off-road courses for decades, this gauge provides the rugged reliability required for the harsh vibrations of a flat-four engine. Whether you are dialing in a set of dual 44 IDF Webers on a weekend cruiser or monitoring a high-volume pump on a dedicated sand rail, the Sport-Comp series offers a silver bezel and black face aesthetic that perfectly complements the vintage or modern interior of any VW Beetle, Karmann Ghia, or Bus. This mechanical gauge provides real-time, analog feedback without the lag of digital sensors, ensuring you know exactly how much pressure is reaching your needle and seats at every RPM range.

For the air-cooled enthusiast, the 0-15 PSI range of the ATM3312 is specifically optimized for carbureted applications. Most stock Solex carburetors and aftermarket Weber or Dellorto setups require a very specific, low-pressure windowtypically between 2.5 and 4 PSIto prevent needle valve blow-through and engine flooding. Using a high-pressure gauge designed for fuel injection makes it nearly impossible to read these subtle increments, but the Sport-Comp''s high-contrast white increments on a deep black background allow for pinpoint accuracy. This gauge is not just a cosmetic upgrade; it is a critical diagnostic tool that helps prevent lean conditions that lead to overheating and terminal engine failure. When you install an AutoMeter gauge from Appletree Auto, you are investing in American-made quality that has been the go-to choice for VW engine builders since the golden age of the California look.

FITMENT

This universal 2-1/16 inch (52.4mm) gauge is designed to fit standard mounting holes and pods common in the following applications:

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle and Super Beetle (All Years)
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, and Kombi (1950-1979)
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: Coupe and Convertible (All Years)
• Volkswagen Type 181: The Thing
• Custom VW Builds: Dune Buggies, Meyers Manx, Sand Rails, and Baja Bugs
• Kit Cars: Speedster Replicas and Gazelle builds using VW chassis

SPECS

• Product Line: AutoMeter Sport-Comp Series
• Part Number: ATM3312
• Gauge Type: Fuel Pressure (Mechanical)
• Gauge Size: 2-1/16 inch (52.4mm)
• Pressure Range: 0-15 PSI
• Face Color: Black with High-Contrast White Graphics
• Bezel Color: Silver / Brushed Aluminum Style
• Needle Color: Red / High-Visibility Orange
• Illumination: Perimeter Incandescent Lighting (Includes Red and Green Bulb Covers)
• Fitting Size: 1/8 inch NPT Male Thread on the back of the gauge
• Movement: Precision Bronze Bourdon Tube
• Mounting Hardware: Includes U-bracket and mounting nuts

PRO TIPS

PRO TIP 1: Safety First with Mechanical Gauges. Because this is a mechanical fuel pressure gauge, fuel actually travels through the line to the back of the gauge. For safety reasons, especially in a closed-cabin Volkswagen Beetle or Ghia, we strongly recommend mounting this gauge in an external cowl pod or using a fuel pressure isolator. If you choose to mount it inside the dashboard, ensure you are using high-quality braided stainless steel lines or hard lines to prevent leaks inside the passenger compartment. Never use cheap plastic tubing for fuel lines inside the car, as heat and vibration can cause them to become brittle and fail, creating a significant fire hazard.

PRO TIP 2: Dialing in Your VW Fuel Pressure. Most VW owners don''t realize that "more" is not "better" when it comes to fuel pressure for carburetors. If you are running Weber 40 or 44 IDFs, they are notoriously sensitive to pressure. Setting your regulator so this AutoMeter gauge reads exactly 3.5 PSI is the "sweet spot" for most performance applications. Anything over 4 PSI will often overcome the needle and seat, causing the carburetors to "weep" or flood, which leads to poor idling, fouled plugs, and potential engine fires. Use this gauge to verify your fuel pressure regulator is doing its job under load, not just at idle.

PRO TIP 3: Proper Sealing and Thread Care. When installing the 1/8 inch NPT fitting into the back of the gauge, always use a small amount of fuel-resistant thread sealant or PTFE tape. However, be extremely careful not to get any sealant into the orifice of the gauge itself, as this can clog the Bourdon tube and cause the gauge to read incorrectly or stick. Additionally, always use a "back-up wrench" on the gauge''s brass hex fitting while tightening your fuel line. If you apply too much torque directly to the gauge case without supporting the fitting, you can damage the internal calibration or break the seal of the gauge face.