Hi, just wondering what the pros and cons are of a mechanical gauge versus an electrical gauge. I would like to know various things such as reliabilty, ease of installation, the major differences, etc. Thanks a lot!

 

Pros of mechanical...accurate, real time readings.
Cons of mechanical...may leak in cabin, may be difficult running hoses into cabin (depends on where you want to mount it), limited mounting areas

Pros of electrical...ease of install, you can mount it just about anywhere, no worries of liquids leaking in cabin.
Cons of electrical...ease of install, you can mount it just about anywhere, not having to worry about leaks...oh yeah, milliseconds of delay between actual reading and display.

Both rely on quality and poor quality amplifies the both pros and cons, in a bad way of course...

I recommend electrical in the cabin and mechanical in the engine bay. Of course some may have better luck with mechanicals but I've heard nightmares about them....I've only really heard of delay of displays on electricals.

 

Oh yeah, boost gauge is probably the only mechanical gauge I'd want in the cabin, even though I'd prefer an electrical one. They are just too expensive though. Uh, anyway...