DIY Tach

A tachometer, also called a tach, is a device that measures an engine's revolutions per minute (RPM). Most vehicles come equipped with tachometers, but if you wish to install a new tachometer or if your vehicle does not have one, you can easily install one within an hour. A tachometer can help prevent your engine from overheating. You must wire a few of the tachometer's components to use it with your vehicle.

Instructions

1

Open your vehicle's hood, and disconnect the battery with a socket wrench to prevent any injury that may occur from electrical shocks.

2

Place the tachometer on the dashboard of your vehicle, and mount it using the accompanied equipment. If you have a tachometer that allows for adjustment according to the size of your vehicle's engine, use a Phillips or slotted screwdriver to adjust the tachometer's screws.

3

Run the wiring components through the firewall into the engine compartment. Most vehicles have a small grommet you can remove to access the engine compartment from the passenger compartment. If you are unsure of how to complete this step, consult your vehicle's owner's manual.

4

Connect your tachometer's wiring to the appropriate components. Tachometers usually have three wiring components one connected to the battery, one connected to a grounding source and one connected to an ignition coil on the engine. Use a socket wrench to connect each wiring component. The exact wiring components depend on the tachometer you have purchased. Consult your tachometer's owner's manual for the exact wiring specifications. Some tachometers even include a wire to connect them to a lighting source so the tachometer will light up as well.

5

Reconnect the battery, and close the hood.