RPM Question

[68HoosierCoupe]

I am going to redo my instrument cluster on my "Ozstang" and I am going to install a tach. The Mustang magazines advertise a "mini tach" which fits in the vacant clock opening. They sell a 6K RPM version and an 8K RPM version.

Did the Falcons over there have tachs, and what range were they? What would be my best bet in this situation, as a choice? In fact, what would the "redline" be on a 1981 250 Crossflow?

The "mini-tach" is a product of Australia, interestingly enough!

I am also weighing the option of just gutting the guages and installing a set of aftermarket gauges, which usually come at 10K range for the tach. This way, I'd have a larger tach.

Thanks!
Dave

 

[wagon]

Around 5000rpm for most, on the factory 'S' pack instruments (crossflow models) it was around 4500 or so. So, 6000 sounds about right.

 

[addo]

What would be the main purpose of the tach? Curiosity, or a little bracket racing?

The answer might dictate your choice.

 

[68HoosierCoupe]

My use of this car will definitely be for pleasure only, although driving a little fast on the freeways ("expressways" in Chicago) is always very pleasurable.

The tach would mostly be for general information purposes, just to keep my eye on how things are running. I have a digital tach for garage use, an inductive type attachment on my DVM.

 

[addo]

Well, the smaller one would certainly fulfil your "monitoring" requirements.

I'm personally a preferrer of matching size speedo and tach because you get used to the relative behaviour of each - but that would detract from original appearance. Perhaps see where the trans is heading, budget-wise first?

 

[68HoosierCoupe]

Well possibly. I have the luxury of not needing to stay completely OEM stock in this car, as the paint and a few other things that have been done to it have put the car into the "restomod" category. If I go the route of upgrading all the dash gauges, I agree, I like the full sized tach next to the speedo. They actually sell an instument panel on Ebay with all new Autometer gauges, including a full sized tach, for about $800.00. I could probably buy the gauges and do it myself for half the price or so, and twice the fun.

 

[68HoosierCoupe]

And, yes, monitoring the trans is an issue. When I checked the fluid, I did not run through the gears as suggested above, I'll probably take her for a spin this evening and try that on my return. A couple of guys who work for me race 60's era Mopars and have told me they have a reputable trans guy on thier "team" if I need one.

 

[addo]

That sounds promising. I doubt there's anything inside needing actual replacement or rebuild.