If you’re a car enthusiast or a mechanic, you know that the tachometer is an essential tool for monitoring engine performance. The VDO tachometer is a popular choice for many as it provides accurate RPM readings. However, installing a VDO tachometer can be quite challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with the wiring diagram. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the VDO tachometer wiring diagram.
What is a VDO Tachometer?
A tachometer is a device used to measure the RPM (revolutions per minute) of an engine. VDO is a well-known brand that produces high-quality tachometers for various vehicles. A VDO tachometer provides accurate readings that help drivers monitor their engine’s performance.
There are two types of VDO tachometers: electric and mechanical. An electric tachometer works by receiving an electrical signal from the engine’s ignition system. A mechanical tachometer uses a cable connected to the engine to measure the RPM. Both types of tachometers have their wiring diagrams that guide the installation process.
Wiring Diagram for Electric VDO Tachometer
Before you begin installing your electric VDO tachometer, make sure you have the following tools:
| Tools | What it’s used for |
|---|---|
| Screwdrivers | for attaching wires and mounting the tachometer |
| Wire strippers | for stripping insulation off wires |
| Connectors | for connecting wires to the tachometer |
Once you have the necessary tools, follow these steps to install your VDO tachometer:
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Before you begin any electrical work on your car, always disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical shocks or damage to the electrical system.
Step 2: Mount the Tachometer
Decide where you want to mount the tachometer on your dashboard or steering column. Use a screwdriver to attach the tachometer to the mounting location.
Step 3: Connect the Wires
The electric VDO tachometer wiring diagram consists of four wires: power, ground, signal, and illumination. Follow these steps to connect the wires:
- Power wire: Connect the red wire from the tachometer to the ignition switch’s 12-volt power source.
- Ground wire: Connect the black wire from the tachometer to the car’s chassis or ground.
- Signal wire: Connect the green wire from the tachometer to the negative side of the ignition coil. If your car has a distributor, connect the green wire to the tach output terminal in the distributor cap.
- Illumination wire: Connect the white wire from the tachometer to the car’s lighting circuit. This wire allows the tachometer to light up when you turn on your car’s headlights.
Step 4: Test the Tachometer
After connecting all the wires, turn on your car’s ignition to test the tachometer. If the tachometer is reading accurately, you’re done with the installation process.
Wiring Diagram for Mechanical VDO Tachometer
A mechanical VDO tachometer is slightly different from an electric tachometer. A mechanical tachometer uses a cable connected to the engine to measure the RPM instead of receiving an electrical signal.
The wiring diagram for a mechanical VDO tachometer is relatively simple. It consists of only two wires: the power wire and the ground wire.
Follow these steps to install your mechanical VDO tachometer:
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Before you begin any electrical work on your car, always disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical shocks or damage to the electrical system.
Step 2: Mount the Tachometer
Decide where you want to mount the tachometer on your dashboard or steering column. Use a screwdriver to attach the tachometer to the mounting location.
Step 3: Connect the Wires
The mechanical VDO tachometer wiring diagram consists of two wires: power and ground. Follow these steps to connect the wires:
- Power wire: Connect the red wire from the tachometer to the ignition switch’s 12-volt power source.
- Ground wire: Connect the black wire from the tachometer to the car’s chassis or ground.
Step 4: Connect the Cable
Connect the cable to the back of the tachometer and the engine. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to connect the cable to the engine.
Step 5: Test the Tachometer
After connecting all the wires and cable, turn on your car’s ignition to test the tachometer. If the tachometer is reading accurately, you’re done with the installation process.
FAQs
1. What is a tachometer?
A tachometer is a device used to measure the RPM (revolutions per minute) of an engine.
2. What is a VDO tachometer?
VDO is a well-known brand that produces high-quality tachometers for various vehicles. A VDO tachometer provides accurate readings that help drivers monitor their engine’s performance.
3. How do I install a VDO tachometer?
Follow the wiring diagram provided by the manufacturer to install your VDO tachometer. Make sure you have the necessary tools and disconnect the battery before beginning any electrical work on your car.
4. What are the types of VDO tachometers?
There are two types of VDO tachometers: electric and mechanical. An electric tachometer works by receiving an electrical signal from the engine’s ignition system. A mechanical tachometer uses a cable connected to the engine to measure the RPM.
5. What wires are included in the VDO tachometer wiring diagram?
The electric VDO tachometer wiring diagram consists of four wires: power, ground, signal, and illumination. The mechanical VDO tachometer wiring diagram consists of two wires: power and ground.
Installing a VDO tachometer requires following the manufacturer’s wiring diagram and using the right tools. With this comprehensive guide, you can now install your VDO tachometer with ease and accuracy.
