How to install 12V gauges in a 6V system

[Wayne S. Johnson]

12V gauges can be used in a 6V system with a DC to DC converter. The converter seen in the pic is available on eBay. The 12V light in the gauge can be connected to the 12V output or the light switch if the bulb is changed to 6V.

The Volt gauge in the center is connected to the converter output. The other gauges are oil pressure, oil temperature and tachometer.

Note: The DC to DC converter output voltage must be adjusted to 13V before connecting it to the gauges.

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[Wayne S. Johnson]

This temp gauge works on 5V, which makes it useable in 12V or 6V systems.
I used a USB 12V to 5V power supply, which also provides cell phone charging.
The rotary switch provides switching for 12 temp sensors. The temp gauge goes from -40 to 230° F and cost about $3. Additional sensors were removed form other temp gauges.

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[Bryan67]

I have to ask... why are you using those digital gauges in that car? Or really any gauges in a stock VW like yours? I just think that look totally out of place.
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If you`re going to do something, do it right.

[herbie1200]

I made a similar solution.

But instrument lighting is still at 6V so is regulated together to the rest of original instruments.

My temperature sensors are on: intake manifold, air escaping from heads, and oil.

On the amperometer: I will prefer a 0-central instrument to have a good indication of charging-discharging of the battery.

With this you can also appreciate how, at idle, battery is DISCHARGED by generator, about 7A, with its reverse current. If also stop light are depressed the sensation is that a nightly use in a city of a 6V VW is very critical!

P.S. solid state regulators do not drain reverse current at idle.

[Wayne S. Johnson]

I had that amp meter in my WWII air craft instruments collection, it's not connected. I wanted to fill meter panel.
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[herbie1200]

For curiosity: where did you placed (or have in mind to place) the remaining 11 temperature sensors?

[Cusser]

Such converters were also used to play 12 volt stereos in 6 volt VWs.
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1970 VW (owned since 1972) and 1971 VW Convertible (owned since 1976), second owner of each. The '71 now has the 1835 engine, swapped from the '70. Second owner of each. 1988 Mazda B2200 truck, 1998 Frontier, 2014 Yukon, 2004 Frontier King Cab. All manual transmission except for the Yukon. http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/album_page.php?pic_id=335294 http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/album_page.php?pic_id=335297