Autometer 2-1/16 Ultra-Lite V

Overview

Monitoring your electrical system is absolutely critical in the world of air-cooled Volkswagens, where aging wiring harnesses and vintage charging systems are the norm. The AutoMeter 2-1/16 Ultra-Lite Voltmeter (ATM4391) provides the precision and reliability that the factory dash light simply cannot offer. While the "gen" or "alt" light on your speedometer tells you when the system has already failed, this high-performance voltmeter allows you to see the real-time health of your battery and charging circuit. Whether you are running a high-output alternator on a performance Type 1 engine or maintaining a stock 12-volt generator setup, knowing your exact voltage helps prevent being stranded on the side of the road with a dead battery. The Ultra-Lite series is a favorite among VW enthusiasts because its brushed aluminum face and high-contrast black numbering perfectly complement the aluminum trim and billet accessories often found in custom Beetles, Ghias, and Dune Buggies.

Engineered for maximum durability in harsh environments, this gauge features AutoMeter''s signature rugged air core meter movement. This technology ensures that the needle stays steady and accurate even when you are bouncing across the dunes in a Manx-style buggy or navigating rough city streets in a lowered Type 3. Because this is an electric gauge, installation is straightforward and avoids the need for heavy-gauge battery cables inside the cabin. It provides a full 90-degree sweep for easy reading at a glance, covering a range of 8 to 18 volts. The silver bezel and silver face offer a timeless, high-tech look that upgrades any dashboard while providing the professional-grade data monitoring that Appletree Auto customers demand for their prized air-cooled investments. Don''t leave your electrical health to chance; give your Volkswagen the instrumentation it deserves.

Fitment

This 2-1/16 inch (52.4mm) gauge is a universal fit for any 12-volt DC electrical system. It is commonly installed in the following Volkswagen and off-road applications:

• Volkswagen Beetle: All years (1950-1979) converted to or running 12V systems.
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956-1974 models.
• Volkswagen Bus / Type 2: 1950-1979 (Split Window and Bay Window).
• Volkswagen Type 3: Squareback, Fastback, and Notchback models.
• Volkswagen Thing: Type 181 Safari models.
• Dune Buggies & Sandrails: Meyer''s Manx, Berry Mini T, and custom tube chassis rails.
• VW-Powered Trikes: Custom 12V builds.

Technical Specifications

• Gauge Series: Ultra-Lite
• Gauge Type: Voltmeter (Electric)
• Diameter: 2-1/16 Inches (52.4mm)
• Voltage Range: 8-18 Volts
• Movement: Precision Air Core
• Face Color: Silver / Brushed Aluminum
• Bezel Color: Silver
• Pointer Color: Red / Fluorescent Orange
• Lighting: Incandescent (Includes red and green bulb covers)
• Mounting: In-dash (Includes mounting bracket and hardware)
• Power Requirement: 12 Volt DC

Pro Tips from the Master Tech

Tip 1: The Importance of a Clean Ground

In an air-cooled VW, the chassis is your ground, but decades of paint, undercoating, and light corrosion can create resistance. When wiring your AutoMeter Voltmeter, do not simply screw the ground wire into the nearest piece of sheet metal. For the most accurate reading, run your ground wire to a dedicated ground terminal block or directly to the transmission-to-chassis ground strap area. A poor ground will cause the needle to jump or read lower than the actual battery voltage, leading to false diagnostic concerns.

Tip 2: Sourcing Your Switched Power

You want your voltmeter to turn on and off with the ignition so it doesn''t drain your battery while the car is parked. On a standard VW ignition switch, you should tap into "Terminal 15." This provides power only when the key is in the ''on'' position. Always use a fused connection for this wire. If you are running a high-powered stereo or auxiliary lights, seeing the voltage drop at the dash versus the battery can help you determine if your main power wire from the battery to the front of the car needs to be upgraded to a heavier gauge.

Tip 3: Matching Your Classic Dash Aesthetic

The Ultra-Lite series comes with red and green bulb covers (boots). If you are looking to match the vintage green glow of your original VDO speedometer, use the green boot over the incandescent bulb. If you find the incandescent lighting too dim for your liking, this gauge is compatible with T3-1/4 wedge-style LED replacements. Switching to a white LED can make the silver face "pop" at night, providing a much cleaner and more modern look to your Beetle or Ghia dash while drawing even less current from your electrical system.