Autometer 5 Ultra-Lite 160 Mp

OVERVIEW

When it comes to high-performance instrumentation, the AutoMeter 5-inch Ultra-Lite 160 MPH Speedometer stands as the gold standard for the serious air-cooled enthusiast. Designed with a distinct silver face and a lightweight aluminum construction, this gauge offers unparalleled visibility and a professional racing aesthetic that transforms any Volkswagen dashboard. Whether you are building a street-legal sleeper, a rugged Baja Bug, or a high-speed sand rail, the Ultra-Lite series provides the precision needed to monitor your velocity accurately when stock VDO units simply cannot keep up with modern engine builds. The high-contrast black increments against the satin silver background ensure that you can track your speed at a glance, even under the harsh glare of the desert sun or the vibrations of a high-revving flat-four engine.

It is essential to understand that this is a sophisticated electronic instrument engineered for modern performance demands. Unlike the original mechanical units found in vintage Beetles and Transporters, the ATM4495 utilizes an electronic signal to provide rock-solid needle movement without the flutter or cable noise common in aged mechanical setups. Because this unit is electronic, it provides the massive advantage of easy calibration to any tire size or gear ratio. This is a game-changer for VW owners running oversized paddle tires or tall freeway gears, as it allows you to maintain legal accuracy regardless of your drivetrain modifications. Please note that this unit is designed for custom in-dash mounting and will require an electronic speed sensor or a GPS signal interface, as it will not accept a traditional squared-end VW speedometer cable.

FITMENT

This 5-inch Ultra-Lite speedometer is a universal high-performance gauge. While it is not a direct "snap-in" replacement for the factory 110mm or 120mm VW speedometer holes, it is the premier choice for custom dashboards in the following applications:

• Volkswagen Beetle: All years (requires custom dash modification or aftermarket fiberglass dash).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: Ideal for custom race-spec interiors.
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus: 1950-1979 (perfect for high-horsepower engine swaps).
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): Custom performance builds.
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): Excellent for rugged off-road instrumentation.
• Meyer''s Manx & Dune Buggies: The industry standard for fiberglass buggy dashboards.
• Sand Rails & Off-Road Chassis: Compatible with all tube-frame race cars.
• Baja Bugs: Designed to withstand the vibration of off-road racing.

SPECS

• Product Brand: AutoMeter.
• Series: Ultra-Lite.
• Model Number: ATM4495.
• Gauge Diameter: 5 Inches (127mm).
• Speed Range: 0 to 160 MPH.
• Movement Type: Electronic (Programmable).
• Face Color: Silver.
• Bezel Finish: Brushed Aluminum.
• Pointer Color: Orange Hi-Def.
• Lighting: Perimeter Incandescent (Includes red and green bulb covers).
• Odometer: Integrated Digital LCD Odometer and Trip Meter.
• Input Requirements: Hall Effect, Sine Wave, or GPS Speed Signal.
• Mounting Hardware: Includes heavy-duty mounting bracket and hardware.

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Solving the Signal Challenge

Since this AutoMeter speedometer is electronic, it won''t connect to your stock VW transmission cable. For the cleanest installation on an air-cooled VW, we highly recommend using a GPS Speedometer Interface. This eliminates the need for messy wires running to your front spindle or transmission and ensures perfect accuracy regardless of what size tires you''re running on your Beetle or Buggy. If you prefer a wired setup, you''ll need an electronic pulse generator that replaces the mechanical cable at the transmission drive.

Tip 2: Precision Dash Preparation

The 5-inch diameter is larger than most standard VW gauge openings. When cutting your dashboard, especially on a fiberglass buggy or a custom aluminum panel, use a high-quality 5-inch hole saw and a pilot bit. Always measure twice and cut once. Ensure there is at least 3 inches of clearance behind the dash for the gauge body and the wiring harness. Don''t forget to use the included mounting bracket to secure the unit tightly, as the vibrations in a VW can cause loose gauges to rotate or rattle over time.

Tip 3: Easy Calibration Secrets

One of the best features of the ATM4495 is the simple calibration. Once installed, you don''t need to do math for your gear ratios. Simply enter the calibration mode, drive exactly two miles (measured via highway mile markers or a GPS app), and stop. The speedometer calculates the pulses received and maps them to the 160 MPH sweep. This is particularly useful for racers who swap between different tire diameters for street and strip use, as you can recalibrate the unit in just a few minutes whenever your setup changes.