Aftermarket tachometers are a great addition to any car, especially for those who love to keep track of their engine’s RPM. However, installing an aftermarket tachometer requires some wiring skills. In this article, we will discuss the aftermarket tachometer wiring diagram in a relaxed English language, so even beginners can understand it easily.
What is a Tachometer?
A tachometer is an instrument that measures the rotation speed of an engine’s crankshaft. It is usually located on the dashboard of a car and is used to monitor the RPM (revolutions per minute) of the engine. Tachometers are essential for performance cars, as they help drivers keep track of the engine’s performance and avoid over-revving.
Aftermarket tachometers are add-on devices that are installed by the car owner, rather than being originally included in the car. They can be used to replace the existing tachometer or added as an additional instrument.
Wiring Diagram for Aftermarket Tachometer
Before starting the installation, it’s essential to gather all the necessary tools and equipment. The primary tools required are a tachometer, a wiring harness, crimping tools, and electrical tape. The wiring diagram for the aftermarket tachometer is as follows:
| Tachometer Wire Color | Function | Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Red | Power | To the ignition switch or battery positive |
| Black | Ground | To the chassis or battery negative |
| Green | Signal | To the negative side of the ignition coil |
| White | Lighting | To the dashboard lighting circuit |
Red Wire (Power)
The red wire is the power wire, and it needs to be connected to a power source that is turned on when the car’s ignition is on. The most common connection point is the ignition switch. The red wire needs to be spliced into the power source and then connected to the power wire of the tachometer wiring harness.
If you can’t find a suitable connection point at the ignition switch, you can connect the red wire directly to the positive terminal of the battery. Ensure that you add a fuse in the power line close to the battery.
Black Wire (Ground)
The black wire is the ground wire, and it needs to be connected to the chassis or the battery negative terminal. The chassis ground provides a more stable connection point, while the battery negative provides a better ground connection.
After choosing the ground point, the black wire needs to be spliced into the ground wire of the tachometer wiring harness.
Green Wire (Signal)
The green wire is the signal wire, and it needs to be connected to the negative side of the ignition coil. The negative side of the ignition coil is usually indicated with a “-” sign. To locate the ignition coil, you need to follow the spark plug wire from the spark plug to the coil.
After locating the ignition coil, the green wire needs to be spliced into the negative wire of the coil. If by any chance, your car has a distributor, you can connect the green wire to the negative side of the distributor.
White Wire (Lighting)
The white wire is the lighting wire, and it needs to be connected to the dashboard lighting circuit. The dashboard lighting circuit is usually a wire that powers the dashboard lights when the headlights are turned on.
After locating the dashboard lighting circuit, the white wire needs to be spliced into the positive wire of the circuit. Ensure to use electrical tape to cover the splice and avoid any short circuit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I install an aftermarket tachometer by myself?
Yes, you can install an aftermarket tachometer by yourself. You need some basic wiring skills, and you can follow the wiring diagram provided with the tachometer. However, if you are not confident about your skills, it’s better to hire a professional to do the installation.
2. Where should I install the tachometer?
The tachometer should be installed on the dashboard or any location where it’s easy to see. Ensure that it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view or interfere with the car’s functionality.
3. How do I know if the tachometer is working correctly?
You can check the tachometer’s functionality by revving the engine and checking if the RPM reading on the tachometer changes accordingly. If the tachometer is not working correctly, check the wiring connections, and ensure they are correctly installed.
4. Are all tachometers the same?
No, tachometers come in different types and varieties. Some tachometers are designed for specific engine types, while others are universal. Choose a tachometer that is compatible with your car’s engine type and meets your needs.
5. Is it legal to install an aftermarket tachometer?
Yes, it’s legal to install an aftermarket tachometer as long as it doesn’t interfere with the car’s functionality or safety features. However, check your local laws and regulations to ensure that it’s legal in your area.
Conclusion:
Installing an aftermarket tachometer is a great way to keep track of your engine’s performance. The wiring diagram is straightforward to follow, but if you are not confident about your wiring skills, it’s better to hire a professional. Ensure that you follow the instructions provided with the tachometer and use the recommended tools and equipment.
