Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

**TBONE1964** · 12-22-2014, 12:05 AM

It has recently come to my attention that some of you using AAW wiring kits have been told that they will not support the use of the factory amp gauge. I have edited the statement that there is a risk of fire when using a stock amp gauge with a newer high amp alternator. I cannot confirm or deny the claim. If it is a concern, then you should do further research.

With that said, I am thinking about creating a volt gauge conversion kit that would come with instructions for installation and should be a 15-20 minute job for most.

I would supply everything needed for installation in a stock cluster. The needle and gauge face can appear to be stock for those concerned about looks.

Let me know who may be interested in a kit and I will make a decision on whether to move forward.

I will be posting photos of a conversion in a few days for all to see.

Thank you for your time and consideration,
Tom

**michael bustamante** · 12-22-2014, 12:11 AM

Using an afternarket volt guage that looks similar to and will fit in the stock ammeter location?

kamikazekyle05 · 12-22-2014, 12:12 AM

I'm using the AAW kit, I would be interested

**TBONE1964** · 12-22-2014, 12:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by michael bustamante

Using an afternarket volt guage that looks similar to and will fit in the stock ammeter location?

Actually Michael, the volt gauge will be a factory style 1976 and up Chevy truck gauge converted to fit in the factory location of the amp gauge.

This was not my idea entirely but I thought there would be a market for a kit with instructions.

**TBONE1964** · 12-22-2014, 12:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kamikazekyle05

I'm using the AAW kit, I would be interested

I will be posting some photos soon, so you can see what the conversion looks like as well as what you would get with the kit.

If there is enough interest, I will be posting kits for sale on the parts board.

Thank you for the interest,
Tom

Lattimer · 12-22-2014, 12:33 AM

Interested.

**jmader** · 12-22-2014, 01:07 AM

I would be interested in one of these. What are you thinking for a price?

67ctener · 12-22-2014, 01:07 AM

I'm un aware of this issue but plan to use an aaw kit. If this is the case I would be interested in the conversion? So the stock ammeter gauge will not work?

**TBONE1964** · 12-22-2014, 01:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 67ctener

I'm un aware of this issue but plan to use an aaw kit. If this is the case I would be interested in the conversion? So the stock ammeter gauge will not work?

It has been brought to my attention that if you are using the AAW wiring kit for custom applications, they recommend not using an amp gauge.

Also if you are using a 100 + amp alternator, the factory amp gauge and wiring will not support the extra amp output from the alternator.

If you are using the "factory fit" AAW kit with a stock alternator, then you will be OK with the factory amp gauge.

Hope this helps,
Tom

**TBONE1964** · 12-22-2014, 01:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jmader

I would be interested in one of these. What are you thinking for a price?

Hey Jeremy,

I have not got a price together yet. i am still working out some details. I will be posted a thread on the parts board soon with pricing.

Stay tuned...

Take care,
Tom

57taskforce · 12-22-2014, 02:10 AM

I'm interested as well. I plan to use the aaw kit and have read the conversion threads on here. It would sure be convenient to get all the parts in one swipe.

**randy.powell** · 12-22-2014, 08:34 AM

T-Bone - sign me up!
B/R,
RP

engineer_gregh · 12-22-2014, 09:08 AM

I would be interested.

**Ol Blue K20** · 12-22-2014, 09:14 AM

Interested

Kennuck · 12-22-2014, 09:41 AM

Here is the Warning from the AAW 510089 Classic Update Kit.

"This kit WILL NOT support the use of a factory ammeter. All AAW kits are engineered to supply the optimum charge to the battery. To achieve this performance, we route our 8ga. charge wire directly from the alternator output charge terminal to the starter battery terminal. Due to the path of the charge being altered from the
stock configuration, the gauge can no longer see a charge vs. a discharge, so it will not work properly. When ammeters were originally used, most generator or
alternator current outputs were rated at a maximum of about 25-60 amps. Modified cars being built today typically utilize a 100 amp or higher output alternator.
With these higher current units, ammeters, generally speaking, become a safety hazard. Ammeters are usually wired in parallel to the charging circuit, are
typically unfused, and can short very easily causing a fire. A voltmeter is recommended as a good alternative."

Tom is building me a cluster for my LS swap so I asked him if he could include the volt gauge. I guess I'm the test mule

Lee H · 12-22-2014, 09:52 AM

Tom, I'm running a AAW classic upgrade kit. I'll take one of you conversion kits. Will it include a harness? Looking forward to the for sale thread. Thanks for doing this, Lee.

Mike C · 12-22-2014, 10:01 AM

This would be nice for people who didn't want to run an ammeter.

I'm pretty sure the stock ammeter is wired using a shunt. Unlike a regular installation of an ammeter, not all of the vehicle current runs through the meter. It may not be incorporated in the harness, but you could add it. Here's a quicky video on youtube that explains it. Also Google "wiring alternator with shunt"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MGed7WKwAA

Matt Cramer · 12-22-2014, 10:55 AM

I'll take one if the price is right. My LS swap has the alternator run straight to the battery and no easy way to put an ammeter on it.

67 chevelle · 12-22-2014, 11:00 AM

very interested , add me to the list

**TBONE1964** · 12-22-2014, 11:43 AM

Thank you everyone.

I have you all on my list. Stay tuned for a thread on the parts board that will explain options and everything included in the kit. I am guessing after the holidays for a thread launch.

I really appreciate the interest. Hope all of you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,
Take care,
Tom

Wizo · 12-22-2014, 12:22 PM

Interested

elf w/capital T · 12-22-2014, 01:59 PM

Very interested in a stock looking and fitment gauge!

WiggyHD · 12-22-2014, 04:13 PM

I'm interested. I have the AAW harness on my wish list...

Thanks
Mark

BrianG · 12-22-2014, 04:20 PM

Add me to the list of those who are interested.

franken · 12-22-2014, 04:51 PM

The factory battery gauge carries no current and is fed by 2 sources of 12V.
There's no danger of fire regardless of the rated current of the alternator.
AAW may not support using the original gauge, but it has nothing to do with fire or the alternator.

12-22-2014, 12:05 AM	#1
TBONE1964 Cluster King Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: Junction City, OR Posts: 5,263	Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. It has recently come to my attention that some of you using AAW wiring kits have been told that they will not support the use of the factory amp gauge. I have edited the statement that there is a risk of fire when using a stock amp gauge with a newer high amp alternator. I cannot confirm or deny the claim. If it is a concern, then you should do further research. With that said, I am thinking about creating a volt gauge conversion kit that would come with instructions for installation and should be a 15-20 minute job for most. I would supply everything needed for installation in a stock cluster. The needle and gauge face can appear to be stock for those concerned about looks. Let me know who may be interested in a kit and I will make a decision on whether to move forward. I will be posting photos of a conversion in a few days for all to see. Thank you for your time and consideration, Tom __________________ Contact me on all of your gauge cluster needs. I specialize in restoration, repair and parts sales for 67-72 Chevy and GMC trucks. email me at tbonegarris@yahoo.com I am also a dealer for Counterpart for gauge cluster parts only. Also see my facebook page, CG&C Last edited by TBONE1964; 12-23-2014 at 11:56 PM.

12-22-2014, 12:11 AM	#2
michael bustamante Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Albuquerque NM Posts: 7,858	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. Using an afternarket volt guage that looks similar to and will fit in the stock ammeter location? __________________ 1967custom

12-22-2014, 12:12 AM	#3
kamikazekyle05 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Vernon, Texas Posts: 331	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. I'm using the AAW kit, I would be interested

12-22-2014, 12:33 AM	#6
Lattimer Registered User Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: Mickleton, NJ Posts: 1,776	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. Interested. __________________ Shawn 1970 Chevy C-10 SWB, 350, TKO 600 5 speed My build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=559881

12-22-2014, 01:07 AM	#7
jmader Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Grand Island, NE Posts: 1,483	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. I would be interested in one of these. What are you thinking for a price? __________________ 1949 Chevy 3100 Five Window 1964 Chevy C10 Lambrecht Auction project 1967 Chevy SWB K10 1967 GMC K15 Project Build thread- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...72#post6502772 1968 Chevy Anniversary K10 1991 K5 4" Lift 35's (the wife's toy)

12-22-2014, 01:07 AM	#8
67ctener Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Arlington Washington Posts: 1,808	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. I'm un aware of this issue but plan to use an aaw kit. If this is the case I would be interested in the conversion? So the stock ammeter gauge will not work? __________________ Scott 67 c10 sold 89 c1500 90 k2500 91 s10 #chevyonly

12-22-2014, 02:10 AM	#11
57taskforce All about them K’s Join Date: Jun 2014 Location: Land of Entrapment Posts: 6,443	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. I'm interested as well. I plan to use the aaw kit and have read the conversion threads on here. It would sure be convenient to get all the parts in one swipe. __________________ Tyler '57 3100 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=813888 '72 K20 Cheyenne: 5” lift, 35’s, front dana 60 blah blah blah… http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=662879 ‘69 K10 SWB: 4” lift 33”s… in a million pieces http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=805206 '98 Silverado LT K2500HD ECLB Vortec 454/4l80E: 6" lift 35x12.5x20’s

12-22-2014, 08:34 AM	#12
randy.powell Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2014 Location: Bushwood, MD Posts: 510	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. T-Bone - sign me up! B/R, RP

12-22-2014, 09:08 AM	#13
engineer_gregh Registered User Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: Smyrna TN Posts: 1,153	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. I would be interested. __________________ 1971 Longbed BB Cheyenne Super 1972 Longbed SB Cheyenne Super 1972 Longbed Highlander Custom Deluxe 1975 K5 4x4 full convertible Build Thread http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=645165 Greg Smyrna TN

12-22-2014, 09:14 AM	#14
Ol Blue K20 Proprietor of Dale's Corner Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: Vacaville , CA Posts: 16,242	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. Interested __________________ "Some Days Chickens And Some Days Feathers" Dale XNGH ECV Sam Brannan 1004 R.I.P. 67ChevyRedneck R.I.P. Grumpy Old Man R.I.P. FleetsidePaul

12-22-2014, 09:41 AM	#15
Kennuck Registered User Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: Dresden, Ontario Posts: 647	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. Here is the Warning from the AAW 510089 Classic Update Kit. "This kit WILL NOT support the use of a factory ammeter. All AAW kits are engineered to supply the optimum charge to the battery. To achieve this performance, we route our 8ga. charge wire directly from the alternator output charge terminal to the starter battery terminal. Due to the path of the charge being altered from the stock configuration, the gauge can no longer see a charge vs. a discharge, so it will not work properly. When ammeters were originally used, most generator or alternator current outputs were rated at a maximum of about 25-60 amps. Modified cars being built today typically utilize a 100 amp or higher output alternator. With these higher current units, ammeters, generally speaking, become a safety hazard. Ammeters are usually wired in parallel to the charging circuit, are typically unfused, and can short very easily causing a fire. A voltmeter is recommended as a good alternative." Tom is building me a cluster for my LS swap so I asked him if he could include the volt gauge. I guess I'm the test mule __________________ 1970 Short Wide 5.3 4L60E BlackBear tune 3:73 gears, Boyd's Tank 2.5 / 4 drop 5 lug disc brakes Vintage Air 18x8 Ridlers 255/55 frt. 18x9.5 275/60 rear

12-22-2014, 09:52 AM	#16
Lee H Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Upland Ca Posts: 4,147	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. Tom, I'm running a AAW classic upgrade kit. I'll take one of you conversion kits. Will it include a harness? Looking forward to the for sale thread. Thanks for doing this, Lee. __________________ 1972 C10 SWB, Air, PS, PB, 350/350THM. Second owner. 1965 Corvette roadster, 44K miles, 327/365 SHP, 4 speed, side exhaust, knockoffs, teak, second owner (bought in 1970), Have ALL numbers matching components. My frame off restoration thread: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=556703

12-22-2014, 10:01 AM	#17
Mike C Registered User Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Austin, TX, USA Posts: 7,723	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. This would be nice for people who didn't want to run an ammeter. I'm pretty sure the stock ammeter is wired using a shunt. Unlike a regular installation of an ammeter, not all of the vehicle current runs through the meter. It may not be incorporated in the harness, but you could add it. Here's a quicky video on youtube that explains it. Also Google "wiring alternator with shunt" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MGed7WKwAA __________________ 44 Willys MB 52 M38A1 64 Corvette Coupe 68 Camaro 'vert LT1 & TH700 69 Z/28 355 12.6's @110 69 Chevy Short Step 4 1/2"/7" drop 72 Jimmy 4WD 4spd 4" & 35's 02 GMC 2500HD 4x4 Duramax

12-22-2014, 10:55 AM	#18
Matt Cramer Registered User Join Date: Apr 2012 Location: Covington, GA Posts: 386	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. I'll take one if the price is right. My LS swap has the alternator run straight to the battery and no easy way to put an ammeter on it. __________________ Matt Cramer 1972 Chevy C10 - 4.8 swap, long bed, and maybe one dent free body panel somewhere - SOLD 4.8 LS build thread

12-22-2014, 11:00 AM	#19
67 chevelle Registered User Join Date: May 2013 Location: WEST PALM FLORIDA Posts: 1,174	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. very interested , add me to the list __________________ 68 Long Fleet , ly6 , turbo 350 , 3-5 drop , original paint , front discs 67 Small window , 7 foot bed , tweaked 6.0 LSX 2004R Medium Olive 58 Apache fleet , 235 , offy intake , dual exhaust , 4 on the floor , red/white 69 Long Fleet , Custom , 6.0, 4l60 , AC , Medium Olive



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12-22-2014, 11:43 AM	#20
TBONE1964 Cluster King Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: Junction City, OR Posts: 5,263	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. Thank you everyone. I have you all on my list. Stay tuned for a thread on the parts board that will explain options and everything included in the kit. I am guessing after the holidays for a thread launch. I really appreciate the interest. Hope all of you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Take care, Tom __________________ Contact me on all of your gauge cluster needs. I specialize in restoration, repair and parts sales for 67-72 Chevy and GMC trucks. email me at tbonegarris@yahoo.com I am also a dealer for Counterpart for gauge cluster parts only. Also see my facebook page, CG&C

12-22-2014, 12:22 PM	#21
Wizo Registered User Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Tacoma WA Posts: 274	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. Interested __________________ 1970 3/4 ton long box GMC !968 C10 short stepside (Papa's Old Lorry) 2006 2500 HD Silverado Duramax/Alison

12-22-2014, 01:59 PM	#22
elf w/capital T Registered User Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: North Carolina Posts: 994	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. Very interested in a stock looking and fitment gauge!

12-22-2014, 04:13 PM	#23
WiggyHD Registered User Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: Mena, Arkansas Posts: 91	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. I'm interested. I have the AAW harness on my wish list... Thanks Mark __________________ Retired Air Force/Disabled Vet 1969 Chevy C-10, On the way to greatness!

12-22-2014, 04:20 PM	#24
BrianG Registered User Join Date: May 2011 Location: Oakley, Michigan Posts: 735	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. Add me to the list of those who are interested.

12-22-2014, 04:51 PM	#25
franken Registered User Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: Somewhere Posts: 3,101	Re: Gauging interest on "volt gauge conversion kits for 67-72 gauge clusters. The factory battery gauge carries no current and is fed by 2 sources of 12V. There's no danger of fire regardless of the rated current of the alternator. AAW may not support using the original gauge, but it has nothing to do with fire or the alternator.

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