Dash/Gauge Voltage Regulator

neuropel · 04-18-2008

On the back of the Manta/Ascona gauge pod there's a small voltage regulator. Does anyone know how to test these? Are they adjustable? What are the symptoms of failure?

Todd K.

opelbits · 04-19-2008

Most gauges are resistance based. The variable resistance changes the voltage (basically like a voltmeter). Since the cars system runs on a fluctuating voltage (11 to 15 volts) the gauges would be all over the place and not give accurate readings. Some bright boy decided that if you design gauges to operate at voltages far below the vehicle systems voltage, say, several volts below the lowest voltage produced in a fair running car, then you could reduce the system voltage down for the gauges. So, a voltage regulator/stabilizer is used to provide a constant 6 volts or so.

You should get a steady 6 volts or so out of the regulator, even when the input voltage changes.

04-18-2008	#1 (permalink)
neuropel Rice Cooker Join Date: May 2002 Location: Spring Church, PA Posts: 1,787	Unanswered: Dash/Gauge Voltage Regulator On the back of the Manta/Ascona gauge pod there's a small voltage regulator. Does anyone know how to test these? Are they adjustable? What are the symptoms of failure? Todd K. __________________ "In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years." -Abraham Lincoln ________________ 1972 GT 2.4L 1974 Manta GT/E 2.2L 1973 Manta Rallye 2.5L

04-19-2008	#2 (permalink)
opelbits Detritus Maximus Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: St. Louis MO Posts: 1,160 Provided Answers: 1	Most gauges are resistance based. The variable resistance changes the voltage (basically like a voltmeter). Since the cars system runs on a fluctuating voltage (11 to 15 volts) the gauges would be all over the place and not give accurate readings. Some bright boy decided that if you design gauges to operate at voltages far below the vehicle systems voltage, say, several volts below the lowest voltage produced in a fair running car, then you could reduce the system voltage down for the gauges. So, a voltage regulator/stabilizer is used to provide a constant 6 volts or so. You should get a steady 6 volts or so out of the regulator, even when the input voltage changes. __________________ "No, it's not fiberglass." "No, the motor is not in the back." "No, your friend in high school did not 'peg' his speedometer."

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)