Race Dash Users Guide Part No.
Preface Preface Congratulations Congratulations on your purchase of the Race Dash Display from Auto Meter. This system will give you a wealth of information to enable you to obtain the maximum safe performance from your vehicle. Purpose of this manual This manual will help you install and use your Auto Meter Race Dash Display. It explains how to set up and configure the system for your vehicle. Units of Measure Units used in the various display parameters are shown in the following table.
Preface Related Products From Auto Meter If you need information about other Auto Meter products, these can be obtained from Auto Meter or from your local Auto Meter dealer. Products available from Auto Meter include: • Tachometers • Playback Tachometers • Speedometers • Boost Gauges • Analog Sensors • Digital Sensors • Data Logging Systems • Display and Logging Systems • Display and Analysis Software Please visit www.autometer.com for a complete listing.
Contents Contents Preface Related Products From Auto Meter Who to Contact at Auto Meter in Case of Difficulty i ii ii Contents iii Chapter 1. Introducing the Display System How to Use this Manual 1 2 Chapter 2. Getting Started The Display Module Wiring Harness Connecting the Components 3 4 4 5 Chapter 3.
Contents iv Chapter 6. Troubleshooting 37 Appendix A. Template for the Display Module 44 Appendix B. Wiring Harness Diagram 46 Appendix C. Summary of Switch Functions 47 Appendix D.
Chapter1. Introducing the Display Systems Chapter 1. Introducing the Display System The Auto Meter Race Dash Display System monitors and displays a range of values, known as performance parameters, needed for effective car and driver management in most competitive situations.
Chapter 1. Introducing the Display Systems How to Use this Manual Auto Meter recommends that you unpack and connect the components in the system before you install it in your vehicle. This will enable you to familiarize yourself with operating the display and configuring it for the vehicle in which you intend to install it.
Chapter 2. Getting Started Chapter 2. Getting Started This chapter guides you through the initial unpacking and setting up of the equipment for pre-installation checks and familiarization with its operation.
Chapter 2. Getting Started The Display Module The Display Module consists of an analog tachometer and a digital display panel. The Display Module is connected to a variety of sensors by a wiring harness. The wiring harness has a 19-way military connector for connection to the Display Module. Wiring Harness Each of the wires in the harness is labeled.
Chapter 2. Getting Started Labels on Long Cables ES OT WT OP F B+ B- Connection To Engine speed (RPM) Oil temperature sensor Water temperature sensor Oil pressure sensor Fuel pressure sensor Battery Positive Battery Negative (Ground) Connecting the Components 1. Connect the wiring harness to the display module. 2. Connect the four switches to the cables labeled S1 to S4. 3. Connect each of the sensors that you have purchased to the appropriate wire in the wiring harness, as shown above. 4.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Chapter 3. Operating the Display System This chapter takes you through the operation of the system so that you can familiarize yourself with its use before you install it in the vehicle. Switching the Display System On You will have switched the system on already if you have followed the instructions in the previous chapter and have just set the system up for the first time before installing it.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Display Layer 1 5 6 7 3 2 4 1 0 8 Display layer 1 shows: • Water Temperature (WATER) • Oil Temperature (OIL T) • Current speed (SPEED) • Oil Pressure (OILP) Press Switch 3 to change the display to layer 2. Display Layer 2 Display layer 2 shows: • Battery voltage (BATT) • Oil Temperature (OIL T) • Fuel Pressure (FUELP) • Oil Pressure (OILP) Press Switch 3 to change the display to layer 3.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Display Layer 3 Display layer 3 shows: • Lap number of the last completed lap • Lap time for the last completed lap • Lap number of the fastest lap • Fastest lap time (BEST) Press Switch 3 to change the display to layer 4. Display Layer 4 Display layer 4 shows • Fastest lap time • Running time from the start of the current lap Press Switch 3 to change the display back to layer 1.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Peak Values (Tell Tales) The system can display the peak values (sometimes called ‘telltales’) that have been recorded during a run for all the monitored parameters. Peak values are updated only when the engine speed has exceeded its "gate value" for RPM for at least one second. This allows the values to stabilize. Blipping the engine may not be enough to update the peak values.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Resetting the Peak Values You can reset all of the peak values, except the fastest lap time, manually. All peak values are reset at the same time. If the engine is running at or above its gate value when the peak values are reset, they are set to the current value of each performance parameter. To reset the peak values: • Press and hold Switch 1 to display the peak values. • While holding Switch 1, press and hold Switch 3.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Alarms The Display System has built-in warnings to alert the driver when certain parameters either exceed or fall below their alarm values. For example, a warning is signalled if the fuel pressure falls below its alarm value or if the oil temperature rises above its alarm value. You can adjust the preset alarm levels when you configure the Display System. See Chapter 4, Configuring the Display System in this manual.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Displaying an Alarm When an alarm condition occurs, the built-in amber warning light turns on and the digital display gives a warning message to show the type and value of the alarm. If you are using the External Alarm Warning Lamp, that lamp will illuminate at the same time. 5 6 7 3 2 4 1 0 8 Clearing an Alarm Press Switch 2 or Switch 3 while the alarm is being displayed. Showing the Last Alarm Press and hold Switch 2.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Lap Times The lap time is displayed for a preset time either when triggered by the infra-red lap time sensor passing the lap time beacon or when the driver presses Switch 4 You can adjust the preset display time when you configure the Display System. See Chapter 4, Configuring the Display System in this manual. The most recent lap time is held in display layer 3. Press switch 3 to see this display layer.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Gear Shift Light The gear shift light comes on when the engine RPM exceeds a predefined value. See Chapter 4, Configuring the Display System for information about setting this value. If you purchased the optional Shift Light (model no. 9580) that light will illuminate at the same time. 5 6 7 3 2 4 1 0 8 Making a Recording All of the displayed parameters are recorded including the Lap Times.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Playback Menu The Playback Menu is displayed by holding down Switch 3 while the dash is powered up. The most recent run will be selected, eg, The top line of the display shows the currently selected run, the maximum number of runs recorded and the duration of the selected run. The bottom line shows the number of laps in the run and the best lap time. Select the run which you wish to reply using Switches 1 and 2 to scroll through the available runs.
Chapter 3. Operating the Display System Replaying the Recorded Data Once the selected run is replaying, the display layers work in the same way as they did when the run was being recorded. You may press Switch 4 at any time to pause the replay. Pressing either Switch 1 or 2 will nudge the replay forwards or backwards by the preset number of seconds.
Chapter 4. Configuring the Display System Chapter 4. Configuring the Display System System Configuration Mode You put the Display System into System Configuration Mode by pressing Switches 1 and 2 together. You then work through the configurable parameters in a preset sequence, pressing Switch 3 to display the next configurable parameter. Setting or resetting configuration values Use Switch 1 to decrease the value being configured and Switch 2 to increase it.
Chapter 4. Configuring the Display System Gate RPM: Set the RPM above which peak values are stored and the Fuel Pressure, Oil Temperature and Water Temperature warnings operate. Recording RPM: Set the RPM at which the recording option is started. Shift RPM: Set the RPM at which the shift light is to come on. High water temperature: Set the value above which the water temperature alarm will occur. High oil temperature: Set the value above which the oil temperature alarm will occur.
Chapter 4. Configuring the Display System Low fuel pressure: Set the value below which the fuel pressure alarm will occur. Low oil pressure: Set the value below which the oil pressure alarm will occur. Low battery voltage: Set the value below which the battery voltage alarm will occur. Lap time pop-up: Set the time in seconds for which the Lap Time pop-up will be displayed when the vehicle passes the lap time beacon. Recording RPM: Set the RPM at which recording starts.
Chapter 4. Configuring the Display System Nudge Amount: Set the number of seconds, in increments of 10 seconds, by which you want to skip through the data when either of the Nudge Keys are pressed (see Replaying the Recorded Data below). We suggest that you use a small value for tracks which contain short laps and a larger value for longer circuits.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Who can install the Display System? The Display System can be installed by anyone competent in fitting electrical and mechanical accessories to cars. Tools Needed to Install the Display System No special tools other than normal workshop tools are needed. Preconfigured Display Systems Use the instructions in the previous chapters to set up, operate and configure the display before installing it in the vehicle.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Fitting the Display Module The Display Module is fitted into a cut-out in the instrument panel/dashboard and secured using the two U-brackets at the rear. The dimensions for the cut-out are shown below. A full size template can be found in Appendix A. 97mm (3.82 in.) 42.5mm (1.67 in) Rad. Typ. 54.5mm (2.15 in.) 5.5mm (0.22 in) Rad. Typ. 37.5mm (1.48 in.) 89.5mm (3.52 in.) 95mm (3.74 in.) 5.5mm (0.22 in.) 190mm (7.48 in.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Switches The four switches are used to control the functions of the Race Dash. The normal functions of the four switches are: Switch Switch 1 Switch 2 Switch 3 Switch 4 Functions 1. Show Peak Values 2. Freeze speed on “HOLD” display (optional Corner Speed feature only) 1. Show Last Alarm or Enter Lap Time Memory mode (optional) 2. Clear Alarm 1. Change Display Layer 2.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Warning Lights The Race Dash has two built-in warning lights. One of these is for the shift light and the other for warning the driver that an alarm has been triggered. As an option, you can install additional external warning lights for these functions. External warning lights should be installed in any position that is in the driver’s direct line of vision as they need to be visible at all times.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Connecting the Display System to the Ignition System The Display System can be connected to engines with a variety of ignition systems. Please see below. * WARNING Warranty will be void if connected to coil when using an aftermarket ignition box such as, but not limited to products from the following manufacturers: MSD, Crane, Jacobs, Mallory, Holley, Etc.. Prior to installation, check with the ignition box manufacturer for recommended tachometer signal location.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Series Resistor Connection For systems which require series resistor on the ES (Engine Speed Wire) the resistor must be connected directly to the terminal to limit interference from the spark plug and coil wires (which must be the shielded type). Ignition System Resistor CB ES (Engine Speed) Wire + SW Electronic Ignition or ECU Connection Connect the ES (Engine Speed) wire directly to the “Tacho” output of the electronic ignition or ECU.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Pressure Sensors Fitting the pressure sensors The system is supplied with two 150 psi pressure sensors to measure Oil Pressure and Fuel Pressure. These sensors have a 1/8” NPTF thread. Optional adapters may be supplied to match the pressure ports of different types of engines. If you find that you have a sensor with an incorrect thread, please contact Auto Meter for advice.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Temperature Sensors The Race Dash is supplied with two temperature sensors with 1/8” NPTF thread. Each sensor can be used for monitoring both oil temperature and water temperature. Fitting the temperature sensors 28 • Position the sensors and their cables as far as possible from sources of intense heat and from the ignition HT leads. • Mount each temperature sensor directly in the appropriate fluid line.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System VSS Pulse Amplifier Interface Introduction This amplifier is designed to convert the output of an existing sensor, which generates a pulsed signal which is not compatible with the system’s channel input requirements. This incompatibility may be caused by insufficient voltage or lack of output current drive capability.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Using the 'dual-lock' fastener with Auto Meter sensors This is a high opening force 'Velcro-type' fastener system with identical mating halves. It is intended to be used for semipermanent fixing applications and is not intended for frequent dismantling. For best performance, the following precautions should be taken: Bond strength is dependent upon the amount of adhesive to surface contact development.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Electrical The amplifier connects into the system via a four way Mini Sure Seal (MSS) socket, the larger of the two connectors on the amplifier. Use the extender cable supplied to connect the amplifier to the WS input on the harness. Use the vehicle speed extension harness with a MSS connector at one end and two wires at the other to connect the amplifier to the speed sensor. For a two wire sensor, connect sensor wires to the white and black wires on the cable.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System VSS Pulse Amplifier Technical Specification Supply : Output characteristics : Input impedance : Operating temperature range : Input threshold adjustment range : Input hysteresis : Maximum input frequency Physical dimensions : Weight : Vibration testing : 32 From system input compatible with system >50K Ohms -4 to 176 ºF -5 Volts to +12 Volts +/- 0.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Lap Timing Sensor (optional) The lap timing sensor is actuated by an infra-red beacon positioned at the side of the circuit. The sensor is fixed to a rigid bracket mounted at a convenient position on the outside of the vehicle where it is able to detect the signals from the beacon. • It is secured by two nuts with M18 x 1mm threads. • This sensor must be positioned horizontally and square to the axis of the vehicle.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Trackside Infra-Red Lap Beacon (optional) The trackside infra-red lap beacon has a threaded socket on its base for mounting to a standard photographic tripod.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Power supply to Trackside beacon The beacon operates from a 12v DC supply. A sealed lead-acid battery with a minimum rating of 2.5 Amp/hour is recommended. This provides about 15 hours of operation. The condition of the battery is indicated by the color of the LED indicator on the front panel of the unit Green The voltage is, at present, adequate for use Red The voltage is too low (replace the battery). No Color Battery exhausted or disconnected.
Chapter 5. Installing the Display System Fitting the wiring harness When fitting the harness on the vehicle, you should observe the following: • Start by attaching the harness to the Race Dash by connecting the 19-way military connector. • First position the ends of all the wires at the locations of the sensors, lamps and switches to which each is to be connected, but do not connect them yet.
Chapter 6. Troubleshooting Chapter 6. Troubleshooting Symptom Display is dead (no backlight, nothing on display, no green dial lights) Display is dead (no backlight, nothing on display, green dial lights on but dim) or !! LOW BATT !! warning on display Display flashes and dial pointer resets or vibrates The !! LOW OIL P !! message does NOT appear on power up. The warning light is not turned on.
Chapter 6. Troubleshooting Symptom Display gives a fixed temperature reading of 999° F Possible Cause Temperature sensor has failed Remedy Replace sensor Faulty sensor connections Check the continuity of sensor leads Replace sensor Display gives a fixed temperature reading of 0°F when the engine temperature is above 55°F A temperature sensor has failed Faulty sensor connections Check continuity of sensor leads for open circuits. Fixed pressure reading of 999.
Chapter 6.
Chapter 6. Troubleshooting Symptom Switch 4: does not set or display pop-up lap times when no automatic receiver in use Possible Cause Switch 4 faulty Remedy Replace switch Faulty switch wiring Check switch wiring for correct continuity.
Chapter 6. Troubleshooting Symptom Display values and messages unclear or unreadable (poor contrast) Possible Cause Display too hot or too cold ECU interface shorted.
Chapter 6. Troubleshooting Symptom Displayed speed value too high or too low by a constant %-age amount. Possible Cause System configured with wrong number of targets per wheel revolution System configured with wrong wheel circumference.
Chapter 6. Troubleshooting Symptom Display and alarm light flash when the engine is running Display works OK until engine starts then Display freezes or resets continuously. Display recovers once engine stopped. Possible Cause Intermittent alarm caused by a parameter with its alarm level set too close to the normal operating value Interference from Ignition system & HT Leads Dash wiring close to HT leads & or injector leads, or HT leads tied to isolated metal work to which Dash wiring is also tied.
Appendix A. Template for the Display Module Use the template on the following page for cutting out an aperture for the Display System.
Appendix C. Summary of Switch Functions Appendix B.
Appendix C. Summary of Switch Functions Appendix C.
Appendix D. Service and Support Appendix D. Service and Support Service For service send your product to Auto Meter in a well packed shipping carton. Please include a note explaining what the problem is along with your phone number. Please specify when you need the product back. If you are sending product back for Warranty adjustment, you must include a copy (or original) of your sales receipt from the place of purchase.
Appendix D. Service and Support 12 Month Limited Warranty Auto Meter Products, Inc. warrants to the consumer that all Auto Meter High Performance products will be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of twelve (12) months from date of the original purchase. Products that fail within this 12 month warranty period will be repaired or replaced at Auto Meter’s option to the consumer, when it is determined by Auto Meter Products, Inc.
Index Index additional external warning lights, 24 alarm for battery voltage, 11 alarm for fuel pressure, 11 alarm for oil pressure, 11 alarm for oil temperature, 11 alarm for water temperature, 11 alarm warning light, wiring label, 4 alarms, 11 alarms, switching on or off, 20 analog tachometer, 4 battery voltage, 7 battery voltage alarm, 11 checks and alarms, 36 clearing an alarm, 12 configuring the display system, 17 current speed, 7 digital display panel, 4 Display layer 1, 7 Display layer 2, 7 Display
