Alright, here's my list in order of importance:

1. TURBO (preferrably one that shows vac too, like a 30-0-25)
2. OIL Pressure
3. WATER Temp
4. EGT


My plans are to run aftermarket VDO's in the three dash sockets, left to right, OIL, WATER, BATT, and run a TURBO and EGT gauge on a two-gauge pod on the A-pillar, but I want input on what gauges are essential for monitoring a high performance boosted car. I know the 280ZX is limited on gauge placement options.

I would have put this in exterior/interior but I'm mostly interested in what gauges you all think are the better choices and why. Placement is a secondary concern.

Also, which is better, a mechanical oil gauge or an electric with a sending unit?

 

If I had enough cash, I'd get an oil temp and fuel pressure gauge as well. The temp gauge will come handy during extended blasts or on track days and so will the fuel pressure gauge if you decide to increase the boost.

 

I would also agree on the oil temp. guage. Will the VDO guadges drop right in the dash?? And where are you getting a-pillar mount?? a Z32??

 

I would also get a air fuel ratio gauge.

 

Forget the guage go with the haltech...That way you can monitor and adjust.

 

The haltech would be my recommendation, I'd also suggest the air fuel meter after the boost gauge, but before others.. that way you can keep an eye on (and control if you go Haltech) the air fuel ratio, it's a minor upgrade which may save your engine one day! once those are in i really don't think order matters too much, but keep in mind every time you install a gauge it means pulling apart the dash, maybe save and buy your gauges, then install them all at once

 

if you need gauge pods, and are somewhat creative, go to the junkyard and find a new a-pillar (save yours, just in case), and then buy the el-cheapo universal gauge pods and a do-it yourself fiberglass kit (get cloth not mat) and build your own a-pillar, it's not hard (read the instructions) and you'll have a nice one-off piece.

 

In this order:

Boost
EGT
A/F ratio
Fuel Pressure
Oil Temp