What are people using for rotax 912 instruments?

[danny_galaga]

I was thinking of using VDO as they are reasonably priced and for me having used to be an auto electrician they are a known quality. However I like the idea of having ‘green’ bands on the gauges and I see there is this alternative 2” gauge brand

 

UL FLIGHT LINE 2 INCH OIL TEMPERATURE GAUGE from Aircraft Spruce

 

Anyone used these? Or in 2.25” is aviasport which is getting a bit pricier...

 

 

[cscotthendry]

When I built the Nynja, I used the Avia Sport instruments. I'm not sure if they're still in business though.

 

 

[skippydiesel]

I have mainly Speco brand engine gauges - very happy with performance & price.

 

Regarding coloured operating bands - with care & ingenuity it is possible to open/close the gauges and stick your own bands in place.

 

 

[danny_galaga]

I guess with the 2” gauges I can rotate them and do the ol’ ‘needles pointing up when in normal operating range’.

 

 

[microman]

I used all VDO when I built the Alpi - good quality and reliable ( and cheap)! Easy enough to mark the gauges with coloured strips

 

 

[Blueadventures]

When I built the Nynja, I used the Avia Sport instruments. I'm not sure if they're still in business though.

Agree with Scott plus you can wire in warning lights. I saw scott had done this and did the same, very easy. Off when in the green band, blink when in yellow band & constant light for red band. Good for getting attention. Cheers

[skippydiesel]

I used all VDO when I built the Alpi - good quality and reliable ( and cheap)! Easy enough to mark the gauges with coloured strips

I guess I should have mentioned - my Speco's are all 18 years of age & Hobb 850 hrs plus, with the exception of the oil pressure, which I replaced (both gauge & sender) two months ago. So reliability speaks for itself and they are much cheaper than VDO.

My 912 engine & related gauges are:

 

Speco: Oil temp. Oil Pressure. Head temp (x 2 switch). Volts. Fuel Pressure. Fuel level.

 

VDO: Manifold vacuum (for fun)

 

Other: EGT (unknown brand)

 

Fuel flow/usage: MiZer (not very consistent)

 

 

[danny_galaga]

Is this the same Speco that used to make gear shifters? My LJ Torana had a Speco :D

 

 

[danny_galaga]

Talking of lighting is there any point wiring up the back lighting on the gauges if the air craft is going to be VFR only? Might as well save a little weight and time if I can!

 

 

[skippydiesel]

Is this the same Speco that used to make gear shifters? My LJ Torana had a Speco :D

No idea - I understand Speco to be an American Co however I suspect the gauges are made elsewhere (China?)

 

 

[skippydiesel]

Talking of lighting is there any point wiring up the back lighting on the gauges if the air craft is going to be VFR only? Might as well save a little weight and time if I can!

Not just weight - Complexity - Why add more potential for failure??