Fuel Pressure Gauges

Does your fuel pressure drop when the engine is working hard, or do you want to make sure the regulator holds the pressure you have set? A fuel pressure gauge shows the pressure continuously, so you can spot a weak pump or a clogged filter before the engine runs too lean. These gauges are for you if you tune your car or drive track days.

What a fuel pressure gauge tells you

Fuel pressure has to match the engine's needs, and a drop can typically be caused by a pump that can't keep up, a clogged filter or a regulator that isn't working correctly. Many combine the gauge with a wideband AFR gauge and an oil pressure gauge, so they can keep an eye on fuel pressure, air-fuel ratio and lubrication. You'll find more types among our individual gauges.

How to choose a fuel pressure gauge

• Range: 0-15 PSI or 0-1.0 bar is typically used for low-pressure systems such as carburettors, while 0-100 PSI covers most fuel injection systems. Choose a range where your normal pressure sits well inside the dial.
• Mechanical or electric: A mechanical gauge typically has fuel routed to it via a line, while an electric gauge uses a sender in the engine bay.
• Size: 52 mm (2") or 2-5/8", depending on the mount and space in the dashboard.
• Features: Certain models have a digital display, full needle sweep or peak memory with warning.

From AutoMeter you'll find, for example, the Phantom, Z Series, Factory Match and Ultra-Lite series. Ideally choose the same series as your other gauges so the look matches.

Installation and inspection

Check that the sender, fittings and any hose suit your fuel system – some mechanical gauges are supplied without a line. Tighten all connections securely, keep them away from hot parts such as the exhaust manifold, and inspect them regularly for leaks, especially after work on the fuel system.

Frequently asked questions

Should I choose a mechanical or electric fuel pressure gauge?

An electric gauge uses a sender in the engine bay, so fuel is typically not routed into the cabin. A mechanical gauge requires a line to the gauge and can be simple to connect, but the connections must be completely tight.

Which range suits my fuel system?

It depends on the system. Low-pressure systems such as carburettors typically use a 0-15 PSI range, while fuel injection often requires 0-100 PSI. Your normal operating pressure should sit well inside the range.

What can it mean if the pressure drops under load?

A pressure drop can be caused by a pump that can't deliver enough, a clogged filter, a faulty regulator or a fuel line that is too small. The gauge shows the symptom; you typically find the cause by checking the parts one at a time.