Autometer 2-5/8 Sport-Comp Ni

OVERVIEW

When you are pushing your air-cooled Volkswagen to the limit with a nitrous oxide system, precision is not just a luxuryit is an absolute necessity for engine survival. The AutoMeter 2-5/8 Sport-Comp Mechanical Nitrous Pressure Gauge (ATM3428) is the industry standard for serious racers and performance enthusiasts who demand instant, accurate readings of their bottle pressure. Featuring the iconic Sport-Comp styling with its signature black face, bold white numbering, and a high-contrast red needle, this gauge ensures that you can monitor your N2O levels at a glance, even in the heat of a drag strip pass or a high-speed run across the dunes. The 2-5/8 inch diameter provides a larger, more legible viewing area compared to standard 2-1/16 inch gauges, making it the perfect choice for custom VW dashboards, steering column pods, or overhead console mounts in sand rails and Baja Bugs.

Engineered for rugged reliability, this mechanical gauge utilizes a bronze bourdon tube movement to provide the kind of durability that air-cooled VW owners expect. Whether you are running a weekend bracket racer or a dedicated show-and-go Karmann Ghia, the ATM3428 delivers a 0-1600 PSI range that allows you to dial in your bottle heaters and maintain the optimal 900-950 PSI range required for consistent performance and safe solenoid operation. Because it is a mechanical unit, it operates independently of your vehicle''s electrical system for the pressure reading, ensuring that you have vital data even if you experience a charging system failure. At Appletree Automotive, we know that your air-cooled investment deserves the best, and nothing says professional-grade performance like an AutoMeter Sport-Comp gauge mounted in your cockpit.

FITMENT

This gauge is a universal high-performance component that is widely used in the following Volkswagen and off-road applications:

• Volkswagen Type 1: All years Beetle, Bug, and Super Beetle.
• Volkswagen Type 2: 1950-1979 Bus, Transporter, Station Wagon, and Kombi.
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback models.
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: All years and body styles.
• Volkswagen Type 181: The Thing.
• Dune Buggies: Meyer''s Manx style fiberglass bodies and custom builds.
• Sand Rails: Custom tube-frame chassis and long-travel off-road cars.
• Baja Bugs: Modified off-road Beetles requiring high-visibility instrumentation.

SPECS

• Product Line: AutoMeter Sport-Comp Series.
• Gauge Type: Nitrous Pressure (Mechanical).
• Size: 2-5/8 inch (66.7mm) Diameter.
• Pressure Range: 0 - 1600 PSI.
• Display: Analog Pointer with Black Face and White Decals.
• Bezel Finish: Brushed Aluminum / Silver.
• Lighting: Perimeter Incandescent (Includes Red and Green bulb covers).
• Input Type: Mechanical via 1/8 inch NPT male fitting on the back of the gauge.
• Movement: High-precision Bronze Bourdon Tube.
• Mounting Hardware: Included (U-bracket and nuts).
• Safety Note: Requires high-pressure braided stainless steel line (sold separately).

PRO TIPS

1. Always Use Braided Stainless Steel Lines

When installing a mechanical nitrous pressure gauge, never use plastic or nylon tubing. Nitrous oxide operates at extremely high pressures, often exceeding 900 PSI. You must use a -4AN or -3AN braided stainless steel line to connect the gauge to your nitrous bottle or solenoid manifold. This ensures the line won''t burst or kink, providing a safe and reliable path for the pressure signal to reach your dashboard. If you are mounting the gauge inside the cabin, many racing sanctioning bodies require the use of a gauge isolator to keep the high-pressure nitrous line outside of the driver''s compartment for maximum safety.

2. Dialing in the Sweet Spot for Performance

For the most consistent "hit" from your nitrous system, you want your bottle pressure to sit between 900 and 1000 PSI. If the pressure is too low, the engine will run rich and lose power; if it is too high, it can cause the solenoids to fail to open or lead to a dangerous lean condition. Use the AutoMeter ATM3428 to monitor your bottle heater''s effectiveness. Once you reach the desired pressure on the gauge, you know your system is primed for maximum horsepower. Consistency is the secret to winning races in a nitrous-fed air-cooled VW, and this gauge is your primary tool for achieving it.

3. Proper Lighting and Visibility Maintenance

To get the most out of your Sport-Comp gauge during night racing or evening cruises, pay attention to the lighting installation. The gauge comes with red and green bulb covers, but for a classic VW look, many builders prefer the standard white light or match it to their existing VDO or AutoMeter instrumentation. Ensure the gauge is angled directly toward the driver''s line of sight. Because the 2-5/8 inch gauge is larger than standard units, it has a tendency to catch glare if mounted incorrectly. Use a mounting cup or a recessed dash pod to shield the lens from sunlight during the day, ensuring the high-contrast red needle is always clearly visible.