The three gauges every race car driver should have in their car.
All cars need to be fast, safe and reliable. But when it comes to race cars, it is even more essential to have a sturdy automobile that a driver can rely upon to win. All parts of the vehicle are necessary for its smooth functioning. One of them is the gauge. While it is a simple device on the dashboard that displays various information like speed, fuel level, temperature, it is an invaluable part of a racing car. Many brands like Aem offer many auto parts, including gauges, at an affordable price. For any vehicle to perform its best, all of its components should be in the best condition.
Race cars are known for their speed. So it is crucial to have only those parts that are highly necessary to improve its performance. While different gauges show different readings, here is a list of the essential three that every race driver should have in their vehicle.
- Oil pressure gauge
Not all cars have an oil pressure gauge fitted. But all race cars need to have an oil pressure gauge to ensure there is sufficient pressure.
There are two types of oil pressure gauges.
- Electrical gauge
- Mechanical gauge
The former uses electric current flowing through wires to measure oil pressure, while the latter measures it through pipes attached to the gauge.
Most race cars use mechanical gauges to check oil pressure as they are comparatively more accurate. Both high and low pressure is detrimental to a race cars performance. It could indicate problems like blockage, lubrication issues, lack of oil, or faults in the pump. So always make sure to check the gauges and change the oil when and as necessary.
- Boost gauge
The boost gauge on the dashboard shows the air pressure a turbocharger produces. Having a boost gauge safeguards the vehicle from extreme exhaust pressure and damage to the engine. There are two types of boost gauges.
- Mechanical
- Digital
The mechanical boost gauge is more reliable than the digital since it checks pressure directly. Its readings are more accurate than the digital one, which only gives an estimate. There are also other two types of boost gauges like
- Vacuum boost gauge
- Boost -only gauge
The vacuum boost gauge shows vacuum readings along with indicating problems like leaky or loose valves. The boost-only gauge is the one race car drivers use mostly. High pressure can lead to engine failure, while low boost pressure might indicate problems in the exhaust. So a boost gauge helps the driver keep track of the pressure and do repairs when necessary.
While buying and fitting car parts like these, it is essential to use reputed brands like AEM, who offer quality parts at affordable prices.
- Air/fuel ratio gauge (AFR Gauge)
As the name suggests, the air/fuel ratio gauge measures the air-fuel ratio in the vehicle’s engine. The proportion of air to fuel should be within set limits. A balanced air-fuel ratio is necessary for the oxygen and hydrocarbons in the air and fuel, respectively, to combust. If the AF ratio is too high or low or mismatched, there might be no ignition. This lack of combustion can lead to power loss and an increase in emissions.
The AFR also has a direct impact on the horsepower, driveability, fuel economy of the vehicle. So, it is essential to make sure the air-fuel ratio remains balanced. And for that, an AFR gauge is necessary for the car.
