Just like the name hints, a fluid temperature gauge reads the temperature of your vital liquids. This could be engine coolant, plain water, motor oil, or gear oil. Most factory cars come with a basic coolant temp gauge on the dash, but when you are building a real performer, you need to measure a lot more than just that. You can choose between digital setups, which use an electronic sensor to send a reading to your dash, or mechanical gauges that use a capillary tube to measure changes in fluid temps. We will not get into the deep science here, but both styles are incredibly precise and will give you exact readings right in Fahrenheit to protect your build.
Getting one of these gauges installed is a pretty straightforward process. You simply install the sensor or sending unit directly into whatever fluid you are measuring, usually by tapping into the engine block, transmission pan, or a radiator hose. Then you route the lines into your cab so you can read it live from the driver seat. Most of the gauges we carry here at Elite Race Fab include all the hardware you need for a fresh install, though we also sell standalone replacement parts. Honestly, this is one of the best gauges to have in your field of vision because it gives you advanced warning before you overheat and cook your motor. I had a buddy buy an old run down Honda Civic for $1500, and we broke down three times on the way home just from overheating. With a proper temp gauge, we could have seen exactly when we were about to blow the radiator top and pulled over to let her cool down. It is a simple modification that can save your entire engine.
