| Jackie | 03-10-2005 06:03 PM |
Replaced my stock clock with a thermometer
�
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Hey,
It's bugged me ever since I've owned the car that it didn't have an external thermometer - I always like knowing how warm (er, cold in Michigan) it is out. So I went out to RadioShack and bought a car thermometer which has three functions - inside/outside temperatures, volt meter and clock, and you can have them in any combination you want, since there's two seperate displays. Has lots of neat little functions like an alarm when it's below freezing. $20.
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0004.jpg[/IMG]
When I got to thinking about where to put it, I came up with an idea - since my aftermarket stereo has a clock on it, and the stock clock looks like it belongs in a bathroom in 1986, I should put it where the stock clock is. When I saw that it lit up green I thought it was an even better idea. And once I found out that when plugged into a cigarette lighter it lit up green all the time, I was convinced.
So I bought a used clock pod, armed myself with a Dremel, and made it from this:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0020.jpg[/IMG]
Into this:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0001.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0003.jpg[/IMG]
Finished result:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0012.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0011.jpg[/IMG]
And a dark picture:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0018.jpg[/IMG]
It's wired to the stock clock harness and comes on with the ignition, just like the stock clock. The green backlight is on all the time, isn't too bright, and matches the stock gauges very well. I ran the sensor through the firewall plug and mounted it in the bumper:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/blee.jpg[/IMG]
Unfortunately it does pick up a little bit of engine heat when the car is running and standing still, but as soon as you get moving it seems extremely accurate.
As for mounting, there are a great many ways I'm sure it could be done. I originally used duct tape, which works for a while but eventually loses its strength due to the heat of the dash and the heater itself.
After realizing this, I switched over to this:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/blah.jpg[/IMG]
I bought it at Napa auto parts. Easy and fast to use, and extremely strong. Has worked great for me, and I'd imagine similar adhesives would work just as well.
Overall I'm pretty happy with how it turned out, and now I have a clock for my bathroom :)
Just thought I'd share.
It's bugged me ever since I've owned the car that it didn't have an external thermometer - I always like knowing how warm (er, cold in Michigan) it is out. So I went out to RadioShack and bought a car thermometer which has three functions - inside/outside temperatures, volt meter and clock, and you can have them in any combination you want, since there's two seperate displays. Has lots of neat little functions like an alarm when it's below freezing. $20.
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0004.jpg[/IMG]
When I got to thinking about where to put it, I came up with an idea - since my aftermarket stereo has a clock on it, and the stock clock looks like it belongs in a bathroom in 1986, I should put it where the stock clock is. When I saw that it lit up green I thought it was an even better idea. And once I found out that when plugged into a cigarette lighter it lit up green all the time, I was convinced.
So I bought a used clock pod, armed myself with a Dremel, and made it from this:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0020.jpg[/IMG]
Into this:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0001.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0003.jpg[/IMG]
Finished result:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0012.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0011.jpg[/IMG]
And a dark picture:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/dscf0018.jpg[/IMG]
It's wired to the stock clock harness and comes on with the ignition, just like the stock clock. The green backlight is on all the time, isn't too bright, and matches the stock gauges very well. I ran the sensor through the firewall plug and mounted it in the bumper:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/blee.jpg[/IMG]
Unfortunately it does pick up a little bit of engine heat when the car is running and standing still, but as soon as you get moving it seems extremely accurate.
As for mounting, there are a great many ways I'm sure it could be done. I originally used duct tape, which works for a while but eventually loses its strength due to the heat of the dash and the heater itself.
After realizing this, I switched over to this:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/blah.jpg[/IMG]
I bought it at Napa auto parts. Easy and fast to use, and extremely strong. Has worked great for me, and I'd imagine similar adhesives would work just as well.
Overall I'm pretty happy with how it turned out, and now I have a clock for my bathroom :)
Just thought I'd share.
| Synx | 03-10-2005 06:08 PM |
Very well done!
| Bumble Bee 03 | 03-10-2005 06:11 PM |
damn thats hot!
| dabigmooish | 03-10-2005 06:15 PM |
Wow thats a cool ideal. My last car had an outside temp gauge on it. I really missed it. :(
| munkis | 03-10-2005 06:26 PM |
nice job. :) Looks good!
| Capt Crunch | 03-10-2005 06:33 PM |
Nicely done!
[hijack]I have a version 7 gauge cluster with the ability to read outside temperature... how do I get it to work?[/hijack]
[hijack]I have a version 7 gauge cluster with the ability to read outside temperature... how do I get it to work?[/hijack]
| WxMan | 03-10-2005 06:45 PM |
[QUOTE=Capt Crunch]
[hijack]I have a version 7 gauge cluster with the ability to read outside temperature... how do I get it to work?[/hijack][/QUOTE]
Have a look [URL=http://www.scoobymods.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3309&highlight=sti+cluster][U]HERE[/U][/URL]
[hijack]I have a version 7 gauge cluster with the ability to read outside temperature... how do I get it to work?[/hijack][/QUOTE]
Have a look [URL=http://www.scoobymods.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3309&highlight=sti+cluster][U]HERE[/U][/URL]
| tad_02Wgn | 03-10-2005 07:40 PM |
[QUOTE=WxMan]Have a look [URL=http://www.scoobymods.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3309&highlight=sti+cluster][U]HERE[/U][/URL][/QUOTE]
looks great, i'll definitely have to check that out.
looks great, i'll definitely have to check that out.
| fastsubie | 03-10-2005 09:08 PM |
Very nice! :disco:
Fess
Fess
| wrxpeed | 03-10-2005 10:47 PM |
i love it, gonna do it too if that's alright
| Hank3 | 03-10-2005 11:54 PM |
Good job on the install. Here's mine (not as fancy but it works great for me :) ):
[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v294/Hank3/IMG_2832.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v294/Hank3/IMG_3245.jpg[/IMG]
Sensor underneath the driver's side mirror:
[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v294/Hank3/IMG_3250.jpg[/IMG]
This unit can be puchased here:
[url]http://www.ekitchengadgets.com/diincarthwii.html[/url]
[url]http://store.yahoo.com/graveyard/diincarth.html[/url] <--- [COLOR=Red]cheaper here[/COLOR]
[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v294/Hank3/IMG_2832.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v294/Hank3/IMG_3245.jpg[/IMG]
Sensor underneath the driver's side mirror:
[IMG]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v294/Hank3/IMG_3250.jpg[/IMG]
This unit can be puchased here:
[url]http://www.ekitchengadgets.com/diincarthwii.html[/url]
[url]http://store.yahoo.com/graveyard/diincarth.html[/url] <--- [COLOR=Red]cheaper here[/COLOR]
| Jackie | 03-11-2005 01:22 AM |
[QUOTE=wrxpeed]i love it, gonna do it too if that's alright[/QUOTE]
Sure! If you need any help, shoot me an email.
Thanks for the replies.
Sure! If you need any help, shoot me an email.
Thanks for the replies.
| coolcougar | 03-11-2005 10:39 AM |
I don't suppose you have a part number for this piece?
Thanks
Thanks
| Snakephotog | 03-11-2005 11:28 AM |
[QUOTE=coolcougar]I don't suppose you have a part number for this piece?
Thanks[/QUOTE]
Yeah, a RadioShack part number would be VERY helpful. tia!
Edited... found the part...
[url]http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=63-1039[/url]
Thanks[/QUOTE]
Yeah, a RadioShack part number would be VERY helpful. tia!
Edited... found the part...
[url]http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=63-1039[/url]
| bunot | 03-11-2005 11:35 AM |
that's awesome!! i'm doing this too!!!!
| chewbakarox | 03-11-2005 11:54 AM |
very clean install......best $10 mod evar!!!
| sonicsuby | 03-11-2005 12:51 PM |
DUDE that's nice. Can you post more detailed instructions :)
| G3Red04WRX | 03-11-2005 02:34 PM |
Im going to have to do this too, VERY nice find to the original thread starter. I never would have thought of this unless i had actually been looking to do it and knew radio shack would have what i needed.
All I need is a little more info on where and how you routed the exterior temp sensor if you dont mind, maybe a few pics of a little better description. Thats the only part i forsee as a problem for me. Ive never been very good with "firewall" inclusive projects. (edit: figure it out, but had to jack teh car up to work underneath)
Thanks.
Oh and to anyone else that wants to do this, i suggest you hit your local radio shack soon, they only had 2 left at the store i went to, paid 9.99 but the sign there said 14.99 still, so im assuming its been discontinued for a new model or something to come in the near future. Unless im wrong and its just not a very popular item yet since nasioc hasnt found out about it until now.
EDIT: Just completed this mod, took just under 3 hours with taking my time dremeling the trim since i dont have an extra one. Heres some pics of the final product in my SRR 04 WRX Sedan. Enjoy!
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/37451009c0.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/6c2d98fe45.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/168820dc7b.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/f8f0538dce.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/b5dbf8a67a.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/4323004068.jpg[/IMG]
All I need is a little more info on where and how you routed the exterior temp sensor if you dont mind, maybe a few pics of a little better description. Thats the only part i forsee as a problem for me. Ive never been very good with "firewall" inclusive projects. (edit: figure it out, but had to jack teh car up to work underneath)
Thanks.
Oh and to anyone else that wants to do this, i suggest you hit your local radio shack soon, they only had 2 left at the store i went to, paid 9.99 but the sign there said 14.99 still, so im assuming its been discontinued for a new model or something to come in the near future. Unless im wrong and its just not a very popular item yet since nasioc hasnt found out about it until now.
EDIT: Just completed this mod, took just under 3 hours with taking my time dremeling the trim since i dont have an extra one. Heres some pics of the final product in my SRR 04 WRX Sedan. Enjoy!
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/37451009c0.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/6c2d98fe45.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/168820dc7b.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/f8f0538dce.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/b5dbf8a67a.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://www.freeimagehosting.info/uploads/4323004068.jpg[/IMG]
| CalcVictim | 03-12-2005 07:09 PM |
I just finished mine also, took me five hours because my dremel is a ****ing toy. I had the most trouble getting the thermometer to hold to the clock pod, I stays in place with the help of flexible plastic and much super glue. Also getting the thermo couple through the firewall was a major bitch. The funniest thing is that it's getting dark and snowing pretty hard and there I am an idiot lying on ground trying to get the thermo couple through. Jackie thanks for the great idea.
| munkis | 03-12-2005 07:15 PM |
Im gonna sticky this for awhile, I like it when members contribute cool ideas like these.
| drivin blind | 03-12-2005 07:43 PM |
Going to Radio Shack in the morning. Damn, don't think theyr'e open on Sunday.
| ScoobyNubieToo! | 03-12-2005 10:04 PM |
Nice. I'm adding that to my to-do list...
| wrx05 | 03-12-2005 11:44 PM |
do you have quick write up on the wiring to the clock harness? Thanks..Sweet Mod. I bought this temperature gauge before but I returned because I couldnt find a place to mount it. Great Idea!
| G3Red04WRX | 03-13-2005 10:00 AM |
Ill chime in for the wiring part.
there are 4 wires on the plug to the clock, on teh back of the stock clock thing, you will see what each of the 4 wires is. Use this as reference when looking at the 4 wires on the harness.
in this order:
1) Battery
2) Ground
3) Lighter
4) Accessory
If you want to hardwire this to light up when you turn the key on, then cut the lighter plug off the end of the dc wire, trim back some insulation from the 2 wires, and split them about 1/2 inch or so into rabbit ears.
There is one wire with a blatantly obvious white stripe, this is your "hot" wire. You ned to mash this one into the receptacle on the plug for #4 Accessory.
The other wire may or may not have a thin grey stripe, this is your ground. You need to mash this one into the receptacle on the plug for #2 Ground.
Feel free to tape it up so the wires dont come loose, but i wouldnt worry about soldering or wiretapping for this project, the insulation was thick enough to hold snug in the plug on my install, should be for yours too.
Test if it works, turn your key to accessory or on, and if wored right, youll see the bright green light pop up.
Oh and dont forget to install a pair of AAA batteries so your clock doesnt reset each time you turn your car off.....
Also: as far as mounting it, i used industrial grade double sided tape (the kind that has a clear red backer and comes on a roll like masking tape) rand a thin doubled up line of it around the opening and stuck the clock straight to that, then for added measure ran some extra tape around the clock vertically to hold it tight (anyone doing this should understand this comment)
WOO HOO for the sticky, this ones definitely a keeper.
there are 4 wires on the plug to the clock, on teh back of the stock clock thing, you will see what each of the 4 wires is. Use this as reference when looking at the 4 wires on the harness.
in this order:
1) Battery
2) Ground
3) Lighter
4) Accessory
If you want to hardwire this to light up when you turn the key on, then cut the lighter plug off the end of the dc wire, trim back some insulation from the 2 wires, and split them about 1/2 inch or so into rabbit ears.
There is one wire with a blatantly obvious white stripe, this is your "hot" wire. You ned to mash this one into the receptacle on the plug for #4 Accessory.
The other wire may or may not have a thin grey stripe, this is your ground. You need to mash this one into the receptacle on the plug for #2 Ground.
Feel free to tape it up so the wires dont come loose, but i wouldnt worry about soldering or wiretapping for this project, the insulation was thick enough to hold snug in the plug on my install, should be for yours too.
Test if it works, turn your key to accessory or on, and if wored right, youll see the bright green light pop up.
Oh and dont forget to install a pair of AAA batteries so your clock doesnt reset each time you turn your car off.....
Also: as far as mounting it, i used industrial grade double sided tape (the kind that has a clear red backer and comes on a roll like masking tape) rand a thin doubled up line of it around the opening and stuck the clock straight to that, then for added measure ran some extra tape around the clock vertically to hold it tight (anyone doing this should understand this comment)
WOO HOO for the sticky, this ones definitely a keeper.
| AWDBat | 03-14-2005 11:06 PM |
Very nice and professional work Jackie. I've been looking for a replacement clock since I am installing gauges and an OEM gauge pod to the factory clock housing. Not sure where I'll install this exactly and when, but it may go in the silver area next to the cup holder. Do you guys think it'll fit there? Thanks,
-A
-A
| Jackie | 03-15-2005 12:25 AM |
Hey,
Thanks for the kind words everyone.
Great work G3! Looks cleaner than mine :cool:
Oh, and I have to ask, why are some of you on the ground, LOL? It only took me ~ 5-10 minutes to get the sensor from the thermometer to the grille - all standing on my feet.
My method for guiding the wires was one I learned from doing something similar in my Z - all you need is some tape and something long, skinny and hard (har har - but seriously). Just tape the sensor to whatever you're using and stick it from near the clock pod to under the steering wheel, grab it, untape the sensor and remove the stick. Do the same to get it through the firewall. I simply left the sensor taped to the long stick I used after getting it through the firewall and angled it upwards, leaving it only a few inches into the engine bay. Then I simply snaked my hand in behind the intercooler and grabbed it, pulled it through and untaped it. Very easy.
Here's where I mounted my sensor:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/sensor.jpg[/IMG]
Wiring through the firewall plug (the blue wire is from my amp):
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/firewall_plug.jpg[/IMG]
To attatch it to the clock pod, I simply used good old fashioned duct tape. As ghetto as it sounds, it works well because its removable, strong and adjustable. I was originally planning on fabricating a bracket, but after test fitting it with duct tape, I just decided to leave it.
I must admit, I stole the idea from, well, myself :) I mounted a turbo timer in the stock clock location of my Z:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/centerspeaker.jpg[/IMG]
I'd imagine this turbo timer (HKS) would fit similarly in the clock pod of a WRX (among others), though it lights up blue instead of green.
Anywho, thanks much for the sticky :)
Thanks for the kind words everyone.
Great work G3! Looks cleaner than mine :cool:
Oh, and I have to ask, why are some of you on the ground, LOL? It only took me ~ 5-10 minutes to get the sensor from the thermometer to the grille - all standing on my feet.
My method for guiding the wires was one I learned from doing something similar in my Z - all you need is some tape and something long, skinny and hard (har har - but seriously). Just tape the sensor to whatever you're using and stick it from near the clock pod to under the steering wheel, grab it, untape the sensor and remove the stick. Do the same to get it through the firewall. I simply left the sensor taped to the long stick I used after getting it through the firewall and angled it upwards, leaving it only a few inches into the engine bay. Then I simply snaked my hand in behind the intercooler and grabbed it, pulled it through and untaped it. Very easy.
Here's where I mounted my sensor:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/sensor.jpg[/IMG]
Wiring through the firewall plug (the blue wire is from my amp):
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/firewall_plug.jpg[/IMG]
To attatch it to the clock pod, I simply used good old fashioned duct tape. As ghetto as it sounds, it works well because its removable, strong and adjustable. I was originally planning on fabricating a bracket, but after test fitting it with duct tape, I just decided to leave it.
I must admit, I stole the idea from, well, myself :) I mounted a turbo timer in the stock clock location of my Z:
[IMG]http://www.mustangmods.com/data/149/centerspeaker.jpg[/IMG]
I'd imagine this turbo timer (HKS) would fit similarly in the clock pod of a WRX (among others), though it lights up blue instead of green.
Anywho, thanks much for the sticky :)
| tuellma | 03-15-2005 12:45 AM |
Nice job.
Wonder if mounting the sensor in the hood scoop area would be worth while?
There are two other mods I saw like this.
One of them, the owner mounted his CD player where the stock clock is, using a hood he got off ebay. Looks sweet.
The second one, the individual mounted a boost guage in the right side of the housing, still left the clock intact. Pretty interesting location for the boost guage, I thought it a bit out of the way, personally. But it was an original idea and did look clean.
I like this one, as cheap, seemingly easier and useful.
Might look into getting one setup. Or might mount my Turbo Timer in there with the stock clock. So many good ideas out there. Thanks for sharing this.
Wonder if mounting the sensor in the hood scoop area would be worth while?
There are two other mods I saw like this.
One of them, the owner mounted his CD player where the stock clock is, using a hood he got off ebay. Looks sweet.
The second one, the individual mounted a boost guage in the right side of the housing, still left the clock intact. Pretty interesting location for the boost guage, I thought it a bit out of the way, personally. But it was an original idea and did look clean.
I like this one, as cheap, seemingly easier and useful.
Might look into getting one setup. Or might mount my Turbo Timer in there with the stock clock. So many good ideas out there. Thanks for sharing this.
| sirbryanclark | 03-15-2005 02:08 AM |
What is the quality of the green backlighting? Is it even across the whole screen? Someone mentioned needed batteries, whats that about? Would there be any way to wire it so that the unit turns on with the car, but the the backlight turns on with the headlights?
| CalcVictim | 03-15-2005 08:50 AM |
[QUOTE=sirbryanclark]What is the quality of the green backlighting? Is it even across the whole screen? Someone mentioned needed batteries, whats that about? Would there be any way to wire it so that the unit turns on with the car, but the the backlight turns on with the headlights?[/QUOTE]
The lighting is OK, it's an LED on the side of the LCD. The idea with the headlights wouldn't work with this thermometer since it just has a hot wire and a ground. Also it takes internal batteries in order to keep the clock running when the car is off. Basically when the car is off the thermometer runs and the clock is running off the internal battery, when the car is on it runs off the cars outler and the backlight is on.
The lighting is OK, it's an LED on the side of the LCD. The idea with the headlights wouldn't work with this thermometer since it just has a hot wire and a ground. Also it takes internal batteries in order to keep the clock running when the car is off. Basically when the car is off the thermometer runs and the clock is running off the internal battery, when the car is on it runs off the cars outler and the backlight is on.
| burton1181 | 03-15-2005 11:05 AM |
that looks really good!!! Thanks for the idea..
| 387hardcore | 03-15-2005 11:21 AM |
i think im going to do it good idea
| russd32 | 03-15-2005 02:41 PM |
I went to the shack and picked up a thermometer gauge today. how accurate is the gauge at slow speeds or stopped with the probe mounted in the grille. Does engine heat affect it?
| paperchasin | 03-15-2005 02:49 PM |
nice!!! good thing the sti cluster has ext. temp already...
| G3Red04WRX | 03-15-2005 09:01 PM |
Mine seems to be very accurate (fluctuates abotu .2 degrees +/- while moving) but once i come to a stop the gauge keeps rising because i have mine stuck to the black panel by the drivers side windshield wiper under the hood, outside the engine bay, thinking it would be away from engine heat, but i guess its still getting to the sensor, so this weekend ill relocate to the backside of the emblem in the grill, or possible run it down into the door jamb near the hinge where it should be able to hold the outside temp better. Just have to experiment til i find the most stable location.
Thanks for the compliment Jackie, Like i said in my earlier post i took my time with the dremeling part cause i dont have a backup incase i messed it up. Once i was outside it only did take me about 15/20 minutes to do the install itself. Partly the reason i had to jack up was cause when i went to take that firewall plug out, it fell out of the car towards the engine and got stuck un a shelf i couldnt reach without jacking up to get under the axle. Made things a lot easier on me once it was in the air anyways.
I guess if you dont need the clock, and are just using the unit for temp and voltage, you dont really need the batteries, but with them you will always see what temp it is even with the car off. Cheap install already, 2 batteries doesnt really offset the value:cost ratio of this project.
Thanks for the compliment Jackie, Like i said in my earlier post i took my time with the dremeling part cause i dont have a backup incase i messed it up. Once i was outside it only did take me about 15/20 minutes to do the install itself. Partly the reason i had to jack up was cause when i went to take that firewall plug out, it fell out of the car towards the engine and got stuck un a shelf i couldnt reach without jacking up to get under the axle. Made things a lot easier on me once it was in the air anyways.
I guess if you dont need the clock, and are just using the unit for temp and voltage, you dont really need the batteries, but with them you will always see what temp it is even with the car off. Cheap install already, 2 batteries doesnt really offset the value:cost ratio of this project.
| UM-WRXer | 03-15-2005 09:39 PM |
I just got the last thermometer unit from the local radio shack. They are really discontiuing this item so get them while they last! Anyways i was wondering how to take off the clock pod. Is it just clipped in there or is there a screw or something holding it in (accessable from vent?) I took off my clock pod a while ago so i dont remember....but i thought there was a hidden screw or something..any help?
Also for those who have done the install how do you access the clock settings when the unit is installed? Do you have to take the whole pod out to reset the clock or just pull the unit out? Thanks!
Ill have mine done by this weekend, ill post picks!
Also for those who have done the install how do you access the clock settings when the unit is installed? Do you have to take the whole pod out to reset the clock or just pull the unit out? Thanks!
Ill have mine done by this weekend, ill post picks!
| G3Red04WRX | 03-15-2005 09:59 PM |
Just set the clock and deal. I wouldnt permanently attach the unit to the trim thou, just in case. Mine is just held on by double sided tape, and a nice big strip of duct tape wrapped around it vertically from behind to hold it tight.
Make sure you use a set of batteries if you plan to use the clock thou, so it doesnt reset on you overnight. Batteries are not necessary if your just using the temp/volt gauges, but the unit will only be usable when the car is on.
Just pull the trim straight up out very firmly and it will snap out of place, dont worry, you wont break it. Just dont try to pivot it out to the front, make sure to lift straight up. No hidden screws or anything.
Make sure you use a set of batteries if you plan to use the clock thou, so it doesnt reset on you overnight. Batteries are not necessary if your just using the temp/volt gauges, but the unit will only be usable when the car is on.
Just pull the trim straight up out very firmly and it will snap out of place, dont worry, you wont break it. Just dont try to pivot it out to the front, make sure to lift straight up. No hidden screws or anything.
| G3Red04WRX | 03-15-2005 10:10 PM |
[QUOTE=sirbryanclark]What is the quality of the green backlighting? Is it even across the whole screen? Someone mentioned needed batteries, whats that about? Would there be any way to wire it so that the unit turns on with the car, but the the backlight turns on with the headlights?[/QUOTE]
Electical Note on this comment:
If you want the light to only turn on when you turn your lights on, this IS possible.
Run the lead with the white stripe to your steering column, and tap it into the headlight wiring harness, you want to use the lead that goes hot when the ignition is on and the headlight selector is turned to parking or headlights.
I would tap to the lead that turns on your parking lights, this way it will still turn on the lighting of the unit with the lighting of your interior.
I suggest that you use the clock harness, since you will not be able to use the volt meter function until the unit is powered by the DC connection. Besides, you really wont notice the light during the daytime anyways, and technically the old clock was always lit up when on...
Electical Note on this comment:
If you want the light to only turn on when you turn your lights on, this IS possible.
Run the lead with the white stripe to your steering column, and tap it into the headlight wiring harness, you want to use the lead that goes hot when the ignition is on and the headlight selector is turned to parking or headlights.
I would tap to the lead that turns on your parking lights, this way it will still turn on the lighting of the unit with the lighting of your interior.
I suggest that you use the clock harness, since you will not be able to use the volt meter function until the unit is powered by the DC connection. Besides, you really wont notice the light during the daytime anyways, and technically the old clock was always lit up when on...
| russd32 | 03-15-2005 10:58 PM |
WooHoo,
I picked up a therm from the 'Shack at lunch and I started pulling the car apart at about 6:30. It's almost 10:00 now and I'm done. Thanks for the great idea Jackie and thanks G3 for the wiring info.
Thanks again!!!!
Dusty
I picked up a therm from the 'Shack at lunch and I started pulling the car apart at about 6:30. It's almost 10:00 now and I'm done. Thanks for the great idea Jackie and thanks G3 for the wiring info.
Thanks again!!!!
Dusty
| chris84bond | 03-15-2005 11:12 PM |
I know a few people have commented about internal batteries. Just an idea, but if you ran rechargable alkalines, or possibly lithium, if you can get ahold of them(I love the army for something), might stay up longer...and charge when the car is on. You figure...drive for an hour, charge the batteries fully from the night before. And since I'm sure the clock/temp is pulling-iin very little in the way of watt/amp....prob be good running for even longer.
Idea...not sure how one would go about it right now since I am le tired from work.
Idea...not sure how one would go about it right now since I am le tired from work.
| Hank3 | 03-16-2005 10:35 AM |
I mounted my sensor on the underside of my driver's side mirror. This way the engine heat and direct sun don't interfere all that much. Internal temps are another story :)
| Siper2 | 03-16-2005 01:50 PM |
I'd do it if I didn't have the performance gauge pack already, but maybe it'd mount up to my gauge cluster on the dash with some 3M tape or something.... Hmm...
| coolcougar | 03-16-2005 02:18 PM |
[QUOTE=Siper2]I'd do it if I didn't have the performance gauge pack already, but maybe it'd mount up to my gauge cluster on the dash with some 3M tape or something.... Hmm...[/QUOTE]
Yeah I have the performance gauge pack also... I was considering the area on the center counsle right below the ash tray. I test fitted it and it will work. Doesn't look as clean as the clock replacement method but still looks good plus it is easier. :)
EDIT: oops just noticed you had an 2000... I do not know if this will apply then...
Yeah I have the performance gauge pack also... I was considering the area on the center counsle right below the ash tray. I test fitted it and it will work. Doesn't look as clean as the clock replacement method but still looks good plus it is easier. :)
EDIT: oops just noticed you had an 2000... I do not know if this will apply then...
| disaster999 | 03-16-2005 04:41 PM |
just wondering how ppl route their temp prob to the outside without taking off the intercooler to reach the rubber grommet.
| chewbakarox | 03-16-2005 07:06 PM |
[QUOTE=disaster999]just wondering how ppl route their temp prob to the outside without taking off the intercooler to reach the rubber grommet.[/QUOTE]
get a metal hanger and cut/shape it into a straight piece. tape the sensor/wire to the end of the hanger, and poke it through the grommet from the inside of the car. works like a charm!
get a metal hanger and cut/shape it into a straight piece. tape the sensor/wire to the end of the hanger, and poke it through the grommet from the inside of the car. works like a charm!
| paultg | 03-16-2005 07:50 PM |
[QUOTE=Siper2]I'd do it if I didn't have the performance gauge pack already, but maybe it'd mount up to my gauge cluster on the dash with some 3M tape or something.... Hmm...[/QUOTE]
Chris,
This is what it looks like on my [b]2001[/b] Impreza L gauge Cluster:
[img]http://album.pattiandken.com/albums/paul/cars/Current_vehicles/Subaru_2001_Impreza_L/sirius_install/normal_IMG_0726.jpg[/img]
[img]http://album.pattiandken.com/albums/paul/cars/Current_vehicles/Subaru_2001_Impreza_L/sirius_install/normal_IMG_0756.jpg[/img]
It just blocks the fuel light a bit (which never comes on anway). Ran all the wires under the gauge cluster surround and then into the dash area, so you don't see any of them. The sensor wire runs into the door jab (behind the weather stripping and into the fender area (had to pull the inner fender liner down).
I located the sensor behind the fog lamp (in the lower fender area, it sticks upside down to the frame that supports the battery tray).
Paul G.
Chris,
This is what it looks like on my [b]2001[/b] Impreza L gauge Cluster:
[img]http://album.pattiandken.com/albums/paul/cars/Current_vehicles/Subaru_2001_Impreza_L/sirius_install/normal_IMG_0726.jpg[/img]
[img]http://album.pattiandken.com/albums/paul/cars/Current_vehicles/Subaru_2001_Impreza_L/sirius_install/normal_IMG_0756.jpg[/img]
It just blocks the fuel light a bit (which never comes on anway). Ran all the wires under the gauge cluster surround and then into the dash area, so you don't see any of them. The sensor wire runs into the door jab (behind the weather stripping and into the fender area (had to pull the inner fender liner down).
I located the sensor behind the fog lamp (in the lower fender area, it sticks upside down to the frame that supports the battery tray).
Paul G.
| disaster999 | 03-16-2005 07:52 PM |
[QUOTE=chewbakarox]get a metal hanger and cut/shape it into a straight piece. tape the sensor/wire to the end of the hanger, and poke it through the grommet from the inside of the car. works like a charm![/QUOTE]
edit.
edit.
| Rick Schu | 03-18-2005 10:42 PM |
Great idea! I bought the gauge, but see a problem with it. The only way you can change the time is by some tiny buttons on the top of the unit. These would be hidden when installed and you would have to pull the clock pod off to change it (daylight savings time, etc.). Guess that's not a big deal, but something to consider.
Also, anyone have a brighter picture? What do the sides look like against the unit? I'm afraid that with my poor dremel skills, it might look half-ass.
Also, anyone have a brighter picture? What do the sides look like against the unit? I'm afraid that with my poor dremel skills, it might look half-ass.
| russd32 | 03-19-2005 09:17 AM |
I didn't even set the clock, I set it to outside temp and volts. i've got a clock on my radio. as for dremeling skillz, that could be a problem. I cleaned the end of mine up with a file but it still takes a steady hand and some patience.
| npreston | 03-19-2005 10:29 AM |
I am about to make the venture of cutting my clock pod and inserting the thermometer. By the way, i got the last one at radioshack in all of Longmont, Colorado. Thanks for suggesting the best mod ever for under 10 bucks!!
Peace
Peace
| russd32 | 03-19-2005 01:13 PM |
If anyone can't find a thermometer, the 'Shack where I live has two more left and I'm in Sullivan, IL (aka bumf%#k-you got a perty mouth) so I don't see them selling soon.
| npreston | 03-19-2005 03:12 PM |
Just finished. Total time, including prep, work, and clean up, took 2 hours and 37 minutes. Not bad. I want to again say thank you for sharing this mod with us. I absolutley love it. I did make one variation however, and i would like to make a suggestion, if i may. Instead of mounting the temp sensor in the grill, directly out of the firewall, i followed the water line for the wiper sprayer onto the hood, across to the passanger side and mounted it in the hood scoop. I'm not sure if the heat from the engine will effect the accuracy or not. If it does then i might find another route. I just thought it went a little easier through the scoop, but whatever works best for ya'll is just fine. Anyways, thanks again, killer mod for under 10 bucks! Good lookin out.
Peace,
nick.
Peace,
nick.
| G3Red04WRX | 03-19-2005 07:13 PM |
I dont really have any "brighter" pics of my install, but the lines on the side of the opening are fairly smooth, like i said when i first installed mine, i took my time doing the dremeling part cause i dont have an extra. During the daytime, the only time youll notice a less than perfect dremel job would be under direct sunlight, and at night its pretty much impossible to notice that its not "stock"
I would say to just take as much time as possible on the dremel part to make sure its a perfect fit. You can always take off a little more if you need to, but you cant put it back on if you take too much off....
I would say to just take as much time as possible on the dremel part to make sure its a perfect fit. You can always take off a little more if you need to, but you cant put it back on if you take too much off....
| npreston | 03-21-2005 02:26 PM |
Anyone else having problems with the internal temperature misreading when the heater is on? Driving home last night, the thermometer was reading 127 deg. inside the vehicle. My guess is that it's misreading due to the proximity of the thermometer and the heater vents (inside dash).
I wonder if there's a material i could line the interior of the dash with to deflect, or absorb some of the heat disipated by the heater. Any thoughts?
I wonder if there's a material i could line the interior of the dash with to deflect, or absorb some of the heat disipated by the heater. Any thoughts?
| AWDBat | 03-21-2005 05:54 PM |
The green light doesn't seem to go with the rest of my dash set-up (blue and red gauges, stereo and HVAC). Has anyone tried changing the color yet? I popped the unit open, but couldn't see that it used traditional bulbs. I doubt that using stained glass paint would be very useful as it would probably block out the numbers during the day! Hmmm....
| rebos123 | 03-24-2005 08:07 AM |
just a word of caution to anyone who is about to dremel their dash and/or go through all types of extensive modifications to integrate this unit into their interior. I purchased one of these units when I first purchased my WRX in July 2004. Since then I have replaced the outside temperature sensor twice because of obvious inaccuracies (50 deg F when the snow is flying). I tried wiring the unit to the existing Subaru outside temperature sensor but the sensors must be different impedances - all I got on the display was "LLL".
Just noticed this morning that the unit was reading 40 deg F when all the trees are coated with ice so I guess the search for a decent unit continues.
Just noticed this morning that the unit was reading 40 deg F when all the trees are coated with ice so I guess the search for a decent unit continues.
| PA_02RS | 03-24-2005 08:18 AM |
I just picked up one of these units from the 'Shack last night, hopefully I'll have time to install this weekend on my RS... Thanks for posting this cheap (and useful) mod. :)
| AWDBat | 03-24-2005 08:42 AM |
I tried a couple of paint options, including stained glass paint to the clock/temp face and to the square bulb inside and it doesn't really do a good job - either you can't see the numbers or the bulb's light is blocked out. Maybe a very thin coat of stained glass paint on the bulb might work - fortunately my wife has nail polish remover!
| got_WRX? | 03-24-2005 02:19 PM |
nice man, i think i will do this mod as well... i miss my thermo gauge from my previous car
| UM-WRXer | 03-26-2005 04:53 PM |
I did this mod a couple of weeks ago and now for some reason my battery keeps on dying and leaving me stranded.....The way i wired it was the "hot line" (wire with white stripe on it) to the #4 wire (yellow/red wire) accessory and other ground wire to #2 (ground). Now when i leave my car overnight it has just enough juice to start up and then when i get to my destination (only a couple of miles away, not enough time for the alternator to charge the bat up) im left stranded. I dont think its my alt b/c when the car is running the voltmeter reads 12.4V (iirc) and the battery icon is full. THe only other thing i can think of is that my battery is going, but i just replaced it last winter (with a non oem spec)! ANy help?
| CletusTheDwarf | 03-26-2005 05:12 PM |
I have an issue as well. I took out the stock clock, and before cutting the dash i wanted to just hook up the temp guage to the clock wires to make sure how it worked. When i first plugged it in I had the wrong wires and the light was on regardless of the key position.
Now, when i have it just with batteries installed, the backlight no longer works. Also, the battery light on the top left stays off. I put in new batteries, and the battery light is on dimly as it resets, then once it has turned on, the battery light turns off and the backlight still doesn't work. Could something have happened to the temp guage when i hooked it up wrong?
Now, when i have it just with batteries installed, the backlight no longer works. Also, the battery light on the top left stays off. I put in new batteries, and the battery light is on dimly as it resets, then once it has turned on, the battery light turns off and the backlight still doesn't work. Could something have happened to the temp guage when i hooked it up wrong?
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